Connecting Cambridgeshire’s Digital Hubs Grant Scheme has been shortlisted for the Community Improvement Award in the Connected Britain Awards 2026.

The national award recognises projects that bring communities together and deliver meaningful improvements for local residents. Connecting Cambridgeshire’s submission highlighted the success of its community-led approach to tackling digital exclusion across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough.

Funded through the Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Combined Authority (CPCA) and delivered by Connecting Cambridgeshire, the Digital Hubs Grant Scheme supports local organisations across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough with funding for devices and connectivity, enabling them to provide digital support and help tackle digital exclusion in ways that meet local needs.

The first pilot round awarded 32 grants and established Digital Hubs across 54 community settings, including community centres, libraries, health settings, youth spaces and support services. Through these hubs, local organisations are helping residents build confidence online, access services, develop digital skills and stay connected.

The scheme supports a wide range of communities, including older people, young people, migrants and refugees, carers, people experiencing homelessness and those living with dementia.

Sarah Marsh, Connecting Cambridgeshire Programme Director, said: “We’re delighted that the Digital Hubs Grant Scheme has been recognised on a national stage. This achievement reflects the dedication and hard work of our Digital Hub leads, community partners, volunteers and local organisations who are helping residents across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough build confidence online and access the opportunities that digital inclusion can bring.

“The success of the scheme demonstrates the value of empowering trusted local organisations to provide support in ways that work for their communities. We’re incredibly proud of what has been achieved so far and look forward to welcoming further Digital Hubs through the next round of funding.“

The Digital Hubs Grant Scheme is delivered in partnership with local organisations across the region. In Peterborough, delivery has been supported by Peterborough Council for Voluntary Service and Cambridge Online has provided training and support to help Digital Hub staff and volunteers develop their digital inclusion skills.

Following the success of the pilot, a further 16 new Digital Hubs will be announced soon through the scheme’s second round of funding, extending support to even more communities across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough.

The winners of the Connected Britain Awards 2026 will be announced at Connected Britain in London on 9 September.