Deadline: 14-May-2026
The Openreach Community Fund provides grants to local organisations in Northern Ireland to support digital inclusion and community wellbeing projects. It focuses on improving access to technology, building digital skills, and strengthening community connections.
Applications are managed through the Community Foundation Northern Ireland and must demonstrate clear local impact.
What is the Openreach Community Fund?
The Openreach Community Fund supports grassroots projects that help people and communities benefit from digital connectivity.
It aims to:
- Reduce digital exclusion
- Improve access to technology and internet services
- Strengthen community wellbeing
- Build digital skills and confidence
Key Focus Areas
1. Digital Inclusion
- Access to devices and connectivity
- Support for digitally excluded groups
2. Skills Development
- Digital literacy training
- Online safety and essential skills
3. Community Wellbeing
- Activities that improve social connection
- Support for vulnerable or isolated individuals
4. Community Engagement
- Local participation and collaboration
- Inclusive community initiatives
Why This Fund Matters
Digital access is essential for education, employment, and daily life.
This fund helps:
- Bridge the digital divide
- Empower underserved communities
- Improve access to services and opportunities
- Strengthen social and economic inclusion
Who is Eligible?
Eligible Applicants
- Voluntary and community organisations
- Registered charities
- Not-for-profit groups
Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be based in Northern Ireland
- Demonstrate clear community benefit
- Meet governance and financial requirements of Community Foundation Northern Ireland
What Projects Are Supported?
Projects should:
- Deliver practical, community-based benefits
- Address barriers to digital participation
- Improve access to technology or skills
Examples include:
- Digital training workshops
- Community tech hubs
- Outreach for digitally excluded groups
- Wellbeing programs linked to digital access
How to Apply
Step-by-Step Process
- Identify Community Need
- Define digital or wellbeing challenges
- Design Project
- Focus on practical outcomes and impact
- Prepare Application
- Include objectives, activities, and expected results
- Submit Online
- Through the official grants portal
Selection Criteria
Applications are assessed based on:
- Community need and relevance
- Clarity of outcomes and impact
- Feasibility of the project
- Organisational capacity and governance
Tips for a Strong Application
- Clearly explain the problem your project addresses
- Show measurable outcomes (e.g., number of beneficiaries)
- Demonstrate strong community engagement
- Keep the proposal realistic and focused
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Vague project objectives
- Lack of clear community benefit
- Missing required information
- Weak governance or financial documentation
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who manages the fund?
The Community Foundation Northern Ireland.
2. Who can apply?
Not-for-profit organisations based in Northern Ireland.
3. What type of projects are supported?
Projects focused on digital inclusion and community wellbeing.
4. Is individual application allowed?
No, only organisations can apply.
5. How are applications submitted?
Through the online grants portal.
6. What is the main objective?
To improve digital access and strengthen communities.
7. What makes a strong application?
Clear impact, strong community need, and feasible project design.
Conclusion
The Openreach Community Fund is a valuable opportunity for organisations to address digital exclusion and improve community wellbeing.
By supporting practical, community-driven solutions, the fund helps create more connected, inclusive, and resilient communities in Northern Ireland.
For more information, visit The Community Foundation Northern Ireland.