New €760,000 Munster Impact Fund opens this year with a new focus on environmental projects

Open call for applications to Rethink Ireland’s €760,000 Impact Fund for Munster 2023 seeking submissions from non-profit organisations in the region

Rethink Ireland has renewed its Impact Fund for Munster, calling for applications from innovative social and environmental-focused non-profit organisations. In its fourth year, the fund will prioritise community-led sustainable development, enabling communities in the Munster region to shape and make the green transition to a sustainable future.

The Impact Fund of Munster 2023 will support projects that aim to enhance the sustainable development of local communities across the Munster region. Eligible initiatives are invited to apply for the fund until the 27th of October, 2023 on the Rethink Ireland website:https://rethinkireland.ie/open-funds/.

The Impact Fund for Munster is a one-year €760,000 Fund created by Rethink Ireland in partnership with philanthropic donors from the Munster region including the Parkes Family Limerick, Sunflower Charitable Foundation, Tomar Trust, EI Electronics, several private donors, and the Department of Rural and Community Development via the Dormant Accounts Fund.

Rethink Ireland supports the most innovative non-profit organisations working in Irish communities. 

Mick Guinee, CEO at EI Electronics, said: “We are delighted to support the fourth year of this Fund in partnership with Rethink Ireland. As an Irish-owned global business based in Shannon, it is very important to us that we give back to the community. The Impact Fund for Munster allows us to help effect positive social change directly through non-profit organisations. This year, we look forward to seeing how community-led sustainable development initiatives will make a real difference in the Munster region.”

Pádraic Vallely, Senior Philanthropy and Development Manager at Rethink Ireland, said: “At Rethink Ireland, we understand the importance of consistent and unwavering philanthropic support. Crucially, the fourth year of the Impact Fund for Munster will support sustainable development in the Munster region. By supporting future-focused and community-led non-profit organisations, we can work with communities across the province to shape a more sustainable future for all.”

He continued: “At Rethink Ireland, we actively encourage philanthropists and government to support ventures that help communities embrace the green transition. We would like to recognise the generosity of the Department of Rural and Community Development and all the donors of this Fund for believing in the power of philanthropy and the regions. We would also like to encourage other like-minded individuals, corporates and families to get in touch to make a sustained difference and impact to your community.”

Alongside cash grants, successful applicants will secure a place on Rethink Ireland’s accelerator programme and gain access to a bespoke non-financial support package that uses expert consultants to help strengthen and scale awarded projects.

Non-profit organisations with a focus on the following categories are encouraged to apply:

• Climate Action and Environmental Awareness: increasing sustainability, climate change education, increasing efforts in recycling, the circular economy, green production and waste awareness; and/or,
• Community Inclusion and Cohesion: generating a positive sense of belonging, particularly for marginalised and vulnerable groups.