Growth Fund Supporting Social Innovation Scaling (Ireland)

The Growth Fund 2026–2029 is a €3.6 million funding initiative in Ireland supporting up to three high-performing organisations to scale proven social innovations. Each selected organisation can receive up to €1.15 million, combining financial support with tailored business assistance. The fund focuses on impact-driven projects in areas such as education, health, equality, and the green transition.

What is the Growth Fund 2026–2029?

The Growth Fund 2026–2029 is a strategic funding programme designed to help mature social impact organisations expand their reach and deepen their impact across Ireland.

It uses a venture philanthropy model, combining:

• Grant funding

• Strategic advisory support

• Capacity-building services

The goal is to scale proven solutions that address pressing social and environmental challenges.

Key Fund Details

Total Fund Size

• €3.6 million over 3 years

Funding Per Organisation

• Up to €1.15 million

Number of Awardees

• Up to 3 organisations

Programme Duration

• 2026 to 2029 (3 years)

Funding Model

• Venture philanthropy (financial + non-financial support)

Core Focus Areas

Projects must align with one or more of the following:

• Education

• Health and wellbeing

• Equality and inclusion

• Green transition and sustainability

• Community development

What Makes This Fund Unique?

1. Venture Philanthropy Approach

Unlike traditional grants, this fund provides:

• Long-term funding

• Strategic guidance

• Hands-on support

2. Focus on Scaling Proven Impact

Only organisations with existing, successful projects are supported.

3. Blended Support Package

Includes:

• Financial investment

• Accelerator Programme participation

• Business and operational support

• Access to networks and partnerships

What Support Do Selected Organisations Receive?

Financial Support

• Up to €1.15 million per organisation

Non-Financial Support

• Accelerator Programme

• Tailored business mentoring

• Strategic planning assistance

• Fundraising and communication support

• Access to expert networks

Who is Eligible?

Eligible Organisations

Applicants must:

• Be not-for-profit organisations

• Be based in Ireland

• Have participated in or be nearing completion of a Rethink Ireland programme

Eligibility Criteria

Organisations must demonstrate:

• An active project with measurable results

• Strong evidence of impact

• Clear scaling or replication potential

• Readiness for growth and expansion

• Ability to secure additional multi-year funding

Co-Funding Requirement (Critical Condition)

Selected organisations must secure:

• €450,000 to €750,000 in philanthropic funding over 3 years

Funding Structure

• Growth Fund provides up to 50% uplift on funds raised

• Final funding decisions are made by the Rethink Ireland board

Why This Fund Matters

The Growth Fund addresses a key gap in the social sector: scaling what already works.

It helps organisations:

• Expand proven solutions nationwide

• Strengthen long-term sustainability

• Improve service delivery and outreach

• Drive systemic change in Ireland

It also supports national priorities such as:

• Social equality

• Climate action

• Education and wellbeing

How to Apply (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility

• Ensure your organisation meets all criteria

• Verify prior participation in a Rethink Ireland programme

Step 2: Assess Growth Readiness

• Evaluate your project’s scalability

• Prepare evidence of measurable impact

Step 3: Develop a Scaling Plan

Include:

• Expansion strategy

• Target beneficiaries

• Expected outcomes

Step 4: Secure Co-Funding Strategy

• Plan how to raise €450,000–€750,000

• Identify potential philanthropic partners

Step 5: Prepare Application

• Organisational details

• Project description

• Impact evidence

• Financial projections

Step 6: Submit Application

• Complete and submit within the official deadline

Step 7: Engage in Selection Process

• Be prepared for assessment and follow-up discussions

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Applying without proven impact

• Weak or unclear scaling strategy

• planning for co-funding requirements

• Lack of measurable outcomes

• Ignoring alignment with priority sectors

Pro Tips

• Focus on evidence-based results

• Present a clear growth roadmap

• Highlight partnerships and collaboration

• Demonstrate strong leadership and governance

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the main goal of the Growth Fund?

To scale proven social innovations for greater national impact in Ireland.

2. How much funding can an organisation receive?

Up to €1.15 million over three years.

3. Who can apply?

Not-for-profit organisations in Ireland that have participated in a Rethink Ireland programme.

4. Is co-funding required?

Yes, organisations must raise €450,000 to €750,000 in philanthropic funding.

5. What type of projects are supported?

Projects with proven impact in areas like education, health, equality, and sustainability.

6. What additional support is provided?

Accelerator programmes, business mentoring, and access to networks.

7. Who makes the final decision?

The Rethink Ireland board.

Conclusion

The Growth Fund 2026–2029 is a high-impact funding opportunity for organisations ready to scale proven solutions and drive systemic change in Ireland. By combining significant financial investment with strategic support, it enables organisations to expand their reach, strengthen sustainability, and deliver lasting social and environmental impact.