Minister of State for Community Development and Charities, Jerry Buttimer, officially launched the New Solutions Social Innovation Hub in Cork, marking a major milestone in Ireland’s commitment to fostering social innovation. During the event, the Minister also announced over €2.5 million in funding for nine projects through the New Solutions Scaling Up Grants Scheme, bringing total investment in Ireland’s social innovation ecosystem to more than €5 million.
The New Solutions Fund, co-funded by the European Social Fund+ 2021–2027 (ESF+), aims to strengthen Ireland’s capacity to develop innovative solutions to social challenges, particularly those affecting disadvantaged groups. The Hub will serve as a one-stop shop for social innovators, providing both capacity-building support and grant funding to initiatives at various stages—from idea development to scaling successful pilots.
A total of €2.8 million has been allocated to the New Solutions Social Innovation Hub, which will be delivered by Rethink Ireland in partnership with Dublin City University, the Local Development Companies Network, Údarás na Gaeltachta, the Western Development Commission, and The Wheel. The consortium will work collaboratively to strengthen the social innovation ecosystem and create lasting community impact across Ireland.
Alongside the Hub’s launch, Minister Buttimer announced more than €2.5 million in funding for nine social innovation projects under the Scaling Up Scheme, which supports proven initiatives ready to expand their reach and impact. Among the funded organisations are Sailing into Wellness, Spraoi agus Sport, and Junior Achievement/Young Enterprise Ireland. These projects will receive guidance and support from the Hub to enhance their effectiveness and long-term sustainability.
Pobal, which supported the Department of Rural and Community Development in implementing the New Solutions Fund, welcomed the initiative’s launch. CEO Anna Shakespeare emphasized the significance of the moment for Ireland’s social innovation landscape, highlighting how collaboration with Rethink Ireland and its partners will foster partnerships, share knowledge, and empower organisations to address social challenges more effectively and sustainably.
The launch of the New Solutions Social Innovation Hub and the associated funding reinforce the government’s commitment to driving inclusive, community-led solutions and ensuring social innovation remains at the heart of Ireland’s long-term development strategy.
