The UK Community Benefit Fund, managed by the Community Foundation for Northern Ireland, aims to support local projects that promote health and environmental awareness. With a deadline for applications set for November 4, 2024, this initiative encourages community involvement and sustainable practices.
Key Takeaways
- Grants of up to £2,500 available for local projects.
- Focus on health, environmental issues, and community cohesion.
- Eligibility primarily for not-for-profit organizations in Northern Ireland.
Overview of the Fund
Established in 2016 by Gaelectric and now managed by CGN Europe, the fund is designed to provide economic benefits to local communities while promoting sustainable practices. The Corby Knowe wind farm, located in County Antrim, serves as the funding source for this initiative, with projects needing to be within 5km of the site.
Funding Priorities
The fund prioritizes projects that:
- Address marginalization and tackle rural isolation.
- Focus on children and teenagers, including skills development and cultural activities.
- Encourage community interaction and cohesion.
- Improve the use of existing community spaces.
- Enhance local environmental and conservation management.
- Recruit and develop volunteers to sustain community organizations.
Thematic Areas Supported
Projects must align with one or more of the following themes:
- Children and Teenagers: Initiatives that support youth development and engagement.
- Environment and Living Spaces: Efforts aimed at improving local environmental conditions.
- Community Partnerships: Programs that foster collaboration among community members.
Grant Information
- Grant Size: Up to £2,500 per project.
Ineligible Projects
The fund will not support:
- Organizations promoting causes contrary to the fund’s purposes, such as armaments or tobacco.
- Religious or political activities.
- Applications from individuals or statutory organizations.
- Salaried positions or trips abroad.
- Projects that duplicate existing services or seek retrospective funding.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for funding, applicants must:
- Be a locally based not-for-profit, voluntary, or community group in Northern Ireland.
- Have an active management committee with no related cheque signatories.
- Maintain a governing document and a current bank account in the organization’s name.
- Submit up-to-date annual accounts and comply with previous grant conditions.
Conclusion
The UK Community Benefit Fund represents a significant opportunity for local organizations to secure funding for projects that enhance community health and environmental sustainability. By focusing on collaboration and local needs, this initiative aims to foster a healthier, more engaged community in Northern Ireland.
Sources
- UK Community Benefit Fund for Promoting Health and Environmental Issues – fundsforNGOs, fundsforNGOs.
