The Irish Minister of State for Migration, Colm Brophy, has announced a new funding initiative of up to €2.7 million aimed at enhancing the integration and employment opportunities of migrants in Ireland. This initiative is part of the Employment, Inclusion, Skills and Training (EIST) Programme 2021–2027, which is co-funded by the European Social Fund Plus (ESF+) and the Government of Ireland.
The funding will be allocated to non-governmental and community organizations that implement projects focused on improving employability among migrants. These projects are expected to help migrants overcome key challenges such as language barriers, lack of training, and social exclusion, which can hinder their ability to enter or succeed in the labour market.
Minister Brophy emphasized that migrants bring valuable skills and experience to the Irish workforce but may face systemic obstacles to employment. The funded projects will aim to build essential skills that can increase job readiness and open up more economic opportunities for migrants.
Eligible groups include EEA nationals living in Ireland as well as third-country nationals, including those granted Temporary Protection due to the war in Ukraine. Grants will be awarded to a limited number of significant projects, with a minimum funding threshold of €200,000 per project.
Interested organizations must submit their applications by email to the Department of Justice, with the deadline set for noon on Thursday, 11 September.
