Cork Chamber in partnership with Social Innovation Fund Ireland (SIFI) have proudly launched the Sustainable Cork Fund.
The fund of €200,000 is the outcome of a Cork Chamber funding drive to raise €100,000 through the support of the Cork business community, with match funding from the Department of Rural and Community Development Dormant Accounts Fund.
Paula Cogan, President of Cork Chamber, speaking at the launch: “As a Chamber we have a platform that unites, driving strong collaborations, and positive action, bringing the business community together. Here we have the perfect example of what a strong business community can achieve.
“Initiated as a call to action across the business community as part of the Chamber 200 celebrations in 2019, the Sustainable Cork Fund will be transformational, empowering new projects, and breathing fresh momentum into initiatives that strengthen Cork’s social, environmental or economic sustainability and resilience.”
Ms Cogan added: “Cork is growing. We have a city region that is home to innovative companies, entrepreneurs taking their ideas to the next level, all creating the value that drives our economy.
“A strong economy is crucial, as are vibrant communities, and a quality of life that works for its citizens, and we are proud to have initiated and driven this fund with SIFI, with the support of the Cork business community.
“The Sustainable Cork Fund will support projects with an impact in Climate Action and Environmental Awareness, Community Inclusion and Cohesion, and Sustainable Employment and Economic Development.”
Deirdre Mortell, CEO, Social Innovation Fund Ireland added: “We are delighted to partner with Cork Chamber and the Department of Rural and Community Development on our Sustainable Cork Fund. With this Fund, we aim to lay strong foundations for future generations by supporting innovative social enterprises that are meaningfully engaged in improving the environmental, social and/or economic outcomes for people in the Cork city or county regions. We welcome applications until Friday, April 3, 2020.”
Pádraic Vallely, Business Development Manager, Social Innovation Fund Ireland commented at the launch: “We are delighted to run our first regional Fund with Cork Chamber. It’s important to appreciate the leadership of Cork Chamber, their executives and members by working together to set up this exciting Fund, which will have sustainability at its core. Our aim is to make Cork a leader in the development and active participation in the delivery of the UN SDG’s.”
In conclusion, Ms Cogan, Cork Chamber President added: “Without a doubt, we’re in a very exciting phase of Cork’s history and as a Chamber our vision is that of a sustainable city region, one that is fit for today and built for the future.
“In launching the Sustainable Cork Fund we are acknowledging the depth of potential we have here in Cork. As a Chamber, we are here for the long run, and we want Cork to thrive in a way that works for Cork, for Cork communities, environment and economy. We are very excited to see how this Fund will play its part in shaping Cork.”
The Sustainable Cork Fund invites applications from not-for-profit organisations, and social enterprises, with the application deadline on April 3.
Applications via http://www.socialinnovation.ie/sustainable-cork-fund/
