It was named after Colm Cille (St Columba, 521–597 AD), whose monasteries shaped and spanned the Gaelic world of Ireland and Scotland.

The Initiative provides a channel for interaction, cultural exchange and relationship building over complex geographical and political boundaries.

Its activities include community exchanges, cultural events, language courses and an annual youth parliament.

It was launched in 1997 by the President of Ireland, Mary Robinson and Brian Wilson MP, Scottish Minister of State for Education, Industry and Gaelic: The immediate inspiration for the project came from Mary Robinson's Sabhal Mòr Lecture in 1997, at which she spoke of the possibility of creating "an island space" for Gaelic language and culture.

The Columba Initiative was inspired by the demand from Gaelic speakers in Scotland and Ireland for the chance to meet each other more often, and in so doing to learn more of the language, heritage and lifestyles of one another.