The CERN lighthouse initiative, DIRAC, works to strengthen the Danish engagement with CERN, the world’s largest particle physics laboratory, by revitalising and expanding the Danish CERN user community. By connecting and advancing national competences across fundamental research and applied science, DIRAC supports Denmark’s participation in advanced particle physics experiments while opening new research directions in areas such as materials science, green technology, quantum technology, and digital solutions. The initiative also aims to secure a new generation of researchers and ensure the long-term anchoring of CERN-related knowledge in Denmark.