This local community benefit fund was set up by Gaelectric in 2016 and is now managed by CGN Europe – a wind energy and energy storage company that believes in a sustainable future. GCN is committed to ensuring that their wind farms, whilst having obvious environmental benefits, also provide significant economic benefits to the local community.

The Inishative Community Benefit Fund is available to local community projects within a 10km / 6 mile radius of the wind farm. Priority is given to applicant organisations based within the Carrickmore (3.5 miles), Galbally/Cappagh (4-5 miles) and Sixmilecross (6 miles) areas.

The Inishative Community Benefit Fund is administered by the Community Foundation for Northern Ireland.

Funding will be available to local community projects within a 10km/6 mile radius of the wind farm. Inishative CBF Map

The fund aims to encourage:

Stronger more inclusive communities by ensuring that local people have ownership and involvement in the design and delivery of the project.
Partnership working with community, voluntary and statutory agencies to ensure a coordinated approach.
Sustainable solutions that address local issues.
Projects that improve the utilisation of existing community space in each of the above areas.
Particular emphasis will be placed on funding activities/services that are specifically aimed at older people, people with disabilities, children and teenagers (including pre-school children), providing skills development of local people and promoting health related activities or services.
Given the remoteness of some of these locations, the isolation and lack of statutory transport provision consideration will be given to local transport initiatives.
Projects and programmes offering invaluable advice and information and signposting on key rural issues e.g. Farm Support Services, Welfare & Benefits and Parenting/Family issues etc.
Outdoor/Environmental projects will also be considered in terms of encouraging a healthier and active community as well as protecting and enhancing the local environment.
Finally, wider community events and programmes that encourage greater community interaction (including cross community aspects) encompassing the local rich and varied cultural aspects of music, drama, dance and sport.
Funding will be considered for costs associated with running/administration costs and for purchasing additional equipment to expand services/activities in each of the areas.
Priority will be given to projects which demonstrate the ability to collaborate, network and share best practice.

Grants of up to £2000 are available. Closing date for applications is 13th February 2023 at 1pm.

For more information and to apply, please visit Inishative Community Benefit Fund - Community Foundation Northern Ireland (communityfoundationni.org)