Rethink Ireland launches Impact Fund 2025

The Impact Fund 2025, created by Rethink Ireland and partners, provides €1.1 million over two years to support innovative, community-led solutions in Munster and Wexford. Up to eight non-profit projects will receive grants of up to €96,000 plus capacity-building support to address social exclusion, environmental vulnerabilities and community wellbeing. The fund prioritizes scalable, evidence-based projects that strengthen inclusion, resilience and sustainable development.

Overview

The Impact Fund 2025 supports community-focused organisations addressing interconnected social and environmental challenges across Munster and Wexford. Designed as a two-year initiative, the fund aims to accelerate impactful, scalable and innovative solutions that promote equity, wellbeing and sustainable development in Ireland.

Key Focus Areas

The fund prioritizes projects that address:

• Persistent social exclusion and marginalisation

• Barriers to employment and wellbeing supports

• Climate vulnerability and environmental risks

• Equity, cultural cohesion and community resilience

• Inclusive community participation in sustainable development

• Critical social or environmental issues requiring urgent innovation

• Solutions with potential for scaling or replication in Ireland

• Evidence-based models already operational or tested at a minimal level

These focus areas ensure that funded projects are both impactful and positioned for long-term expansion.

Funding Details

• Total Fund Size: €1.1 million over two years

• Number of Projects Supported: Up to 8

• Grant Amount: Up to €96,000 per project (multi-year)

• Additional Support: Participation in Rethink Ireland’s Accelerator Programme, including strategic planning, communications, impact measurement, and fundraising support

This blended package strengthens organisational capacity and accelerates measurable community outcomes.

What the Accelerator Programme Provides

Selected organisations benefit from:

• Tailored strategic guidance

• Impact and data management training

• Fundraising and communications support

• Access to national networks and cross-sector partners

• Coaching that strengthens long-term sustainability

Who Is Eligible?

To apply, organisations must:

• Have a not-for-profit legal structure

• Meet Rethink Ireland’s core criteria and the fund’s specific requirements

• Operate on the island of Ireland and deliver their primary impact in the Republic of Ireland

• Address a critical social or environmental issue

• Demonstrate innovation within an Irish context

• Show potential for scaling or replication

• Provide evidence that the project is operational or minimally tested

Eligible applicants include community groups, social enterprises, and registered charities working to improve social outcomes and environmental wellbeing.

Why This Fund Matters

• Supports vulnerable communities facing social exclusion, unemployment, or environmental threats

• Strengthens local organisations with the potential for national replication

• Encourages innovation tailored to Irish cultural and regional contexts

• Provides long-term, multi-year support instead of isolated project grants

• Builds resilience and sustainable development capacity in Munster and Wexford

How to Apply (General Process)

While specific application portals may vary, most applicants should follow these steps:

1. Review Eligibility Criteria to confirm organisational and project alignment.

2. Prepare Documentation, including organisational details, project evidence, impact targets, and financial information.

3. Demonstrate Innovation by explaining how the project offers a new or improved solution for Ireland.

4. Show Proof of Testing or Operation, even at a minimal level.

5. Submit the Application through Rethink Ireland’s official platform by the stated deadline.

6. Participate in Follow-Up Queries if Rethink Ireland requests clarification or supporting evidence.

7. Await Selection and prepare for onboarding into the Accelerator Programme if chosen.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Submitting projects still at the idea stage with no testing or evidence

• Failing to show clear scaling potential or measurable impact

• Not demonstrating relevance to Munster or Wexford

• Providing insufficient information on organisational governance

• Overlooking sustainability or long-term community benefits

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How much funding can each project receive?
Up to €96,000 spread over two years.
2. How many projects will be selected?
Up to eight organisations.
3. Does the project need to be already running?
Yes, applicants must show operational activity or minimal testing.
4. Can for-profit entities apply?
No, the lead organisation must be not-for-profit, though partnerships may include other actors.
5. Does the fund support environmental projects?
Yes, especially those addressing climate risks and sustainable development.
6. Is the Accelerator Programme mandatory?
Yes, selected organisations participate to strengthen impact and sustainability.
7. Must projects be located in Munster or Wexford?
They must deliver significant impact in these regions but can be based anywhere on the island of Ireland.

Conclusion

The Impact Fund 2025 empowers Irish non-profit organisations to deliver bold, innovative and community-driven solutions in Munster and Wexford. By combining financial support with capacity-building expertise, Rethink Ireland enables organisations to scale meaningful projects that advance equity, resilience and sustainable development across the region.