Deadline: 30-Sep-2025
The Energia Meenadreen Community Benefit Fund is an opportunity for community, voluntary, and not-for-profit groups located near the Meenadreen windfarm to secure support for their local projects.
The fund focuses on initiatives within a radius of 10 to 14 kilometres from the windfarm, with priority given to projects that fall within 10 kilometres. Applications from groups in the immediate vicinity are especially encouraged, while those outside the 14-kilometre boundary will not be considered.
The purpose of the fund is to strengthen community life, encourage engagement, and improve wellbeing while also contributing to biodiversity and the local environment. By offering financial assistance, the fund enables organisations to carry out meaningful initiatives that reflect the needs of their communities.
Grants of up to €10,000 are available for projects that build connections, promote inclusion, and improve quality of life. This includes training opportunities, social enterprises, heritage and arts activities, and events that bring people together. Projects that support vulnerable groups such as older adults, lone parents, people with disabilities, or those experiencing rural isolation are particularly welcome. Support for children, young people, and members of new or Traveller communities is also encouraged, highlighting the fund’s commitment to diversity and inclusion.
Another priority of the fund is environmental sustainability. Applications are invited from groups working on projects that contribute to climate action, protect biodiversity, or enhance the local natural environment. These initiatives are seen as vital for the long-term wellbeing of both communities and ecosystems.
To be eligible, organisations must be non-profit or voluntary in nature, with charitable aims and a written constitution. They must also be based within the designated 10 to 14 kilometre radius, have an organisational bank account, and provide governance documents as part of the application process. Only one application per organisation is accepted, and because this is a competitive fund, not all applicants will be successful.
The Energia Meenadreen Community Benefit Fund represents an important opportunity for local groups to make a positive and lasting difference. By supporting both social and environmental priorities, it ensures that the benefits of renewable energy extend well beyond the windfarm and into the heart of nearby communities.
For more information, visit Community Foundation Ireland.
