A new €1.5 million fund has been launched in Ireland to support social cohesion and foster inclusive, resilient communities across the country. Rethink Ireland, in collaboration with law firm Mason Hayes & Curran and the Department of Rural & Community Development, unveiled the Connected Communities Fund on 19 February. This fund aims to strengthen social cohesion by providing cash grants and business support to organizations dedicated to scaling innovations that bring people together, promote belonging, and empower marginalized communities to shape solutions that work for them.
Supporting Inclusive Communities
The Connected Communities Fund, which will be managed by Rethink Ireland, seeks to advance equity and inclusion, enhance media literacy and community awareness, and support initiatives that encourage meaningful connections across diverse groups. Eligible organizations from all corners of Ireland are encouraged to apply for the fund by visiting the rethinkireland.ie/open-funds website. The deadline for applications is set for 1pm on Friday, 4 April. Up to five organizations will be selected to receive cash grants, gain access to Rethink Ireland’s Accelerator Programme for scaling social innovations, and receive a tailored package of business and capacity-building supports.
At the launch event of the Connected Communities Fund, Deirdre Mortell, CEO of Rethink Ireland, highlighted the importance of investing in people and organizations that are working to bridge divides and create a more inclusive society. Mortell pointed out that despite record economic growth and high employment rates in Ireland, many communities still feel disconnected. The fund represents an opportunity to support initiatives that bring people together and build a more cohesive society.
Expert Insight and Community Empowerment
Will Carmody, Managing Partner at Mason Hayes & Curran, emphasized the firm’s commitment to equality and inclusion. Carmody noted that supporting the Connected Communities Fund aligns with the firm’s values by fostering shared understanding, mutual trust, and strengthening community cohesion where it is most needed. When individuals from all walks of life feel connected and understood, they are more likely to collaborate and address societal challenges together, ultimately creating a more peaceful and inclusive community for everyone.
Dr. Ebun Joseph, Special Rapporteur for the National Action Plan Against Racism, commended the collaboration between Rethink Ireland and Mason Hayes & Curran in empowering communities across Ireland with the resources, knowledge, and opportunities necessary to drive meaningful change and create a fairer and more inclusive society for all. This initiative builds on the success of previous partnerships that expanded access to education for marginalized groups, including migrants, former prisoners, individuals facing socioeconomic barriers, and the Traveller community.
In conclusion, the launch of the Connected Communities Fund represents a significant step towards fostering social cohesion, promoting inclusivity, and empowering communities across Ireland to create a more connected and understanding society. By supporting initiatives that bring people together, promote belonging, and empower marginalized communities, this fund aims to drive positive change and build a more inclusive future for all individuals in the country. For more information on how to get involved or apply for the fund, visit the rethinkireland.ie/open-funds website. Together, we can work towards a more cohesive and inclusive Ireland for everyone.
