Community Foundation for Northern Ireland

The Community Foundation for Northern Ireland, established in 1979 as the Northern Ireland Voluntary Trust, is an independent grant-making body with over £100 million awarded to community and voluntary groups. Its mission is to connect donors with pressing social needs, fostering a fair, equitable society through strategic philanthropy, innovation, and values like fairness, generosity, equity, inclusion, and community voice. With 2023–2026 priorities on engaging communities, driving diversity and inclusion, and improving wellbeing, it excels as a trusted bridge between philanthropists and grassroots initiatives, pioneering models like Giving Circles and match-funded programs while advocating for policy change and post-conflict resilience.

It funds themes including poverty alleviation, climate sustainability, digital inclusion, social justice, health, mental health, educational disadvantage, isolation among older people, and support for minorities, women, girls, youth, and those in poverty or division. Activities span community building, peace/reconciliation, skills development, arts, environmental projects, advocacy, core/running costs, capacity building, events, and small capital works, prioritizing local innovation and empowerment in areas like Belfast, Derry~Londonderry, and Newry.

Eligible applicants are UK-registered charities, community groups, and social enterprises based in Northern Ireland (some funds area-specific), with annual income under £3 million; unincorporated groups or those lacking governance are typically excluded, though new groups with strong structures qualify. Grants range £3,000–£20,000 (micro-grants from £500; larger up to £50,000/year), supporting people/communities directly. Unsolicited online applications via Fundseeker portal are accepted for open funds with fund-specific deadlines (e.g., Heart of the Community: May–June 2025; others November–December), monthly/quarterly panels, and 4–12 week decisions. Distinctive for risk-taking on peacebuilding and deep local insight, it avoids statutory-covered work, favoring collaborative, evidence-based change.