The Church of Ireland Diocese of Connor

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Small grant funding opportunities for rural communities

Thursday September 6th 2018

Parishes in the diocese may wish to take up funding opportunities offered by two separate bodies, the Murlough Foundation and the Rural Capital Micro Grant Scheme (Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs).

Both offer small grants to organisations in rural communities.

The Murlough Foundation was established to address issues relating to loneliness and isolation and issues around access to, and support of, education.

The foundation aims to support work where there is clear evidence of a sustained beneficial impact on people who are excluded, or disadvantaged, through low income, rural or social isolation, age, disability or gender.

Priority is to be given to small, locally based groups, or organisations in areas of disadvantage, that have a clear understanding of the needs of their community and the potential beneficiaries who are undertaking action as a means of addressing these needs.  The foundation will prioritise organisations and areas where there has been limited access to funding in the past.

Grants of up to £2,000 will be available. Follow this link for further information on grant criteria, who can apply, and the type of activities that will be funded and to submit an application.

The fund opened on Monday September 3 and deadline for applications is September 28 at 1pm.

Under the Rural Micro Capital Grant Scheme 2018, rural community groups can apply for funding of up to £1500 (85% of project cost).

The aim of the programme is to tackle rural poverty and social isolation in the heart of the community through community based groups. 

Previously funded items have included

• tables and chairs
• crockery and kitchenware
• dishwasher
• new windows
• cavity wall insulation
• security doors
• bowling mats
• computers, laptops, printers, projector and screen, large TV monitor screen
• installation of safety equipment to child play area
• new flooring 

The Rural Micro Capital Grant Scheme 2018 opens on Monday September 10 and closes on Friday October 5 at 4pm. Details of how to apply will appear on the DAERA website.

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