Community Foundation Ireland. For Change. For Better. For All. Find out more...
About Us

About Us

The Community Foundation for Ireland and its partners believe in equality for all in thriving communities. We work with individuals, families, corporates and other trusts and foundations as well as Government to translate giving in the moment to giving that is strategic, sustainable and impactful. We use our skills and knowledge developed over 21-years to help donors turn aspirations into effective investments.

In 2020 alone we provided over €15 million in grants. At a time of national crisis we have adapted and responded forming new and unique partnerships, including a Covid-19 Emergency Fund, RTÉ Does Comic Relief as well as the Late Late Toy Show Appeal. Together we have given frontline organisations and lifeline services the resources for digital transformation so their vital work can continue through the Pandemic.

Since our establishment we have provided in excess of €75m to communities through strategic investments. Our Donors provide leadership and support across areas as diverse as engaging communities on climate action, restorative justice for young people, human rights as well as identifying future priorities, including support for all-island civic society engagement.

In addition the issues of climate change, domestic violence as well as rights for minorities such as travellers, migrants and LGBTI+ still need to be urgently addressed. Brexit and the post-Covid scenario will also present their own challenges.

We have a dedicated and committed team; they have extensive experience of grant-making from working with over 5,000 non-profit organisations at a national, regional and local level throughout Ireland and overseas. With over 1,800 community foundations globally, the community foundation model is proven and effective model for social change.

If you would like to learn more about The Community Foundation for Ireland download our guide here: Download

Sign up for the Community Foundation For Ireland Newsletter here. Get the latest news about funding, giving and the impact being made across Ireland, as well as invites to events and webinars.

The Community Foundation for Ireland partners donors and grantees who believe in equality for all in thriving communities. We have invested more than 75 Million Euro in grants in communities. With Climate Change, the fall out of Covid-19 and Brexit our work remains as important as ever. If you are a changemaker, join us."

Denise Charlton, Chief Executive

We fund hundreds of innovative projects addressing education, children and youth, older people, homelessness and so much more. Our current position as one of the largest grant givers in Ireland has led to real progress on challenging issues including domestic violence, penal reform and progressing LGBT+ rights. With the generosity and solidarity of committed donors, we are not afraid of tackling challenging issues at their core.

The Community Foundation for Ireland is an Irish response that both mirrors and is different from models of philanthropy worldwide. We have created funds for Ireland which addresses our country’s social needs not just for today but for the future.

Our Service Charter

We live our values by providing the best services to our stakeholders. Our Service Charter makes six pledges which all our colleagues work to uphold:

Experience matters

Experience matters

Since 2000, we have a proven track record in helping people give back in a strategic and impactful way.

Knowledge matters

Knowledge matters

We have a dedicated and committed staff with extensive experience of philanthropy and grant making in Ireland and overseas.

Connections matter

Connections matter

We connect donors with dedicated non-profit organisations that can make the best use of their gift and we work with professional advisers to find the best charitable solutions for their clients.

Relationships matter

Relationships matter

We have insights and a working relationship with over 3,000 non-profit organisations at a national, regional and local level throughout Ireland.

Results matter

Results matter

We make giving fast, efficient and rewarding, as well as cost effective for our donors.

Governance matters

Governance matters

We are committed to ensuring that The Community Foundation for Ireland attains impeccable standards of governance and transparency and follows best international practice.

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