Who they are
RDI Hub is a state-of-the-art innovation hub located in Killorglin, Co. Kerry. Established in 2019 through a Public-Private Partnership between Fexco, Kerry County Council, and Munster Technological University, it serves as the South West’s centre for design-led digital innovation. As a major regional change initiative, RDI Hub brings together a vibrant community of startups, SMEs, and corporates who collaborate to create new pathways for economic growth and accelerated job creation. In the last five years, it has supported 97 member companies, contributing to the creation of more than 430 jobs, the launch of 70 new products and services, and over €250 million in investment into the region.
Who represents RDI Hub in PREWAPHARM
Fionnuala O’Callaghan – Senior Operations Manager
“At RDI Hub, we’re proud to join forces with national and international leaders to tackle pharmaceutical pollution at its source. PREWAPHARM empowers us to drive innovation, connect communities, and shape policy for cleaner, healthier water across Europe.”
Amy Lucey – Smart Regions Grant Administrator
“Being part of PREWAPHARM gives us a unique opportunity to bridge innovation and impact. At RDI Hub, we’re excited to support solutions that not only advance sustainable water management but also engage local communities in creating lasting environmental change.”
Their role in PREWAPHARM
As the project’s Digital Innovation Hub, RDI Hub contributes across communication, data strategy, training, and regional engagement. Its activities include:
• Community Building
RDI Hub leads community-building actions in Ireland by developing and implementing a communication strategy to raise awareness about medicine residues. This includes establishing a national knowledge community, sharing project outcomes with key stakeholders, and expanding training initiatives to strengthen visibility and engagement.
• Data Analysis
The Hub advises the project consortium on best practices for data collection that enable effective use of AI and predictive analytics in assessing pharmaceutical pollution in water. This guidance focuses on data quality, tool selection, and building trust and adoption of AI among stakeholders.
• Masterclasses / Training Courses
RDI Hub delivers professional training for pharmacists and general practitioners in Ireland, promoting best practices to reduce pharmaceutical residues in water. It also supports water-sector stakeholders such as Uisce Éireann by providing tools and insights on emerging methods for eliminating pharmaceuticals from wastewater.
• Regional Campaigns
The Hub lays the foundation for regional awareness campaigns to inform citizens about the risks of pharmaceutical pollution and encourage responsible behaviour. It also collaborates with NGOs, consumer groups, and Irish water-technology companies—including EPS Water, Tricel, and VorTech Water Solutions—to build a coordinated, all-Ireland approach to water protection.
Why this topic matters
Pharmaceutical pollution in water is a significant environmental and public health concern, and addressing it aligns closely with RDI Hub’s mission and values. With its focus on sustainability, innovation, and cross-sector collaboration, the team is committed to advancing practical solutions through community engagement, professional upskilling, and data-driven strategies. PREWAPHARM offers an opportunity to contribute to cleaner, safer water for current and future generations.
Looking ahead
Through PREWAPHARM, RDI Hub aims to support scalable, impactful solutions by linking digital innovation with real-world environmental outcomes. Working transnationally allows partners to share expertise, test new approaches, and develop coordinated strategies that are more powerful than any region could achieve alone. By connecting policy, science, technology, and community action, the Hub hopes to contribute to long-term benefits for Ireland and the wider North-West Europe region.