€1 million investment for Dublin 8 communities
Diageo Ireland, Guinness, and The Guinness Storehouse have announced details of the inaugural Guinness Dublin 8 Community Fund, inviting local charities, non-profits, and community groups in Dublin 8 to apply for funding for projects.
Applications are now open.
The new initiative will see €1 million invested in Dublin 8 over the next five years, with €500,000 available in its first year, and €125,000 annually thereafter.
The Guinness Dublin 8 Community Fund was made possible through direct investment from Diageo Ireland in partnership with Guinness and the Guinness Storehouse.
Proceeds from the three-day ‘Lovely Days Live at the Home of Guinness’ event this summer, which saw 7,000 guests enter the St James’s Gate site, have also gone directly towards the Guinness Dublin 8 Community Fund through event ticket sales and sales of exclusive Fontaines D.C. event merchandise.
Applications are open under three key pillars reflecting some of the most important areas of focus within the local community, which were identified by supporting partners Community Foundation Ireland.
These include:
- Enhancement of adult educational opportunities and outcomes for the local communities of Dublin 8.
- Fostering community development in Dublin 8.
- Addressing themes of sustainability and climate in Dublin 8.
Developed by Diageo Ireland and Community Foundation Ireland, with input from Dublin 8 community organisations, the Guinness Dublin 8 Community Fund will distribute €500,0000 in grants to 20 local projects in its inaugural year.
Grants of €2,500, €20,000 and €75,000 will be awarded to initiatives delivering meaningful change at grassroots level in Dublin 8.
Shane Kelly, corporate relations director, Diageo Ireland said, “With the launch of the inaugural Guinness Dublin 8 Community Fund, our ambition is to continue standing alongside the local community as a committed partner.
“By making €500,000 available in the first year, we want to provide opportunities that build on the vibrant energy already thriving in Dublin 8.
“Working with Community Foundation Ireland, we’re focused on long-term investment that supports education, community development, and sustainability, while amplifying the voices of local groups and helping them share their passion more widely.
“We’re excited to take this next step with the community and know that this fund will spark great ideas and strengthen partnerships across the Dublin 8 area.’’
Denise Charlton, CEO of Community Foundation Ireland, added, “Community Foundation Ireland is proud to partner with Diageo Ireland on the Guinness Dublin 8 Community Fund.
“Over the next 5 years, this fund will support the incredible work that local organisations are already delivering and help unlock further potential within Dublin 8.
“Supporting innovative projects that create opportunities for growth and learning and fostering a more sustainable future for the community.
“Together with Diageo Ireland, we’re committed to ensuring these funds reach the grassroots level, for initiatives that truly make a difference.”
Catherine Toolan, managing director, Guinness Storehouse: “As we mark 25 years of the Guinness Storehouse, we’re proud to support the Guinness Dublin 8 Community Fund, giving back to the vibrant area where the Guinness Storehouse has thrived since it opened back in 2000.
“This fund is a way of giving back and supporting the people and organisations who make this neighbourhood so special.
“The ‘Alive in 25’ Guinness Storehouse year-long birthday celebration, alongside the Guinness Dublin 8 Community Fund – is not just a celebration of our past, it’s a commitment to the future of Dublin 8 and we can’t wait to see how local groups will shape the next chapter of our shared story’’.
The Guinness Dublin 8 Community Fund builds on Diageo’s continued investment in the local community, further strengthening its long-standing commitment to supporting vibrant and inclusive communities in Dublin 8 and beyond.
In addition to funding for community initiatives and causes, Diageo employees have also volunteered a significant number of hours to help local schools and charities.
Applications for the Guinness Dublin 8 Community Fund are now open until midnight on Monday, 17 November and can be submitted via www.communityfoundation.ie.
Full eligibility and the Fund’s terms and conditions are also available on the Community Foundation Ireland website.
To support local groups with the application process, Community Foundation Ireland will host an information webinar on Tuesday, 21 October, details of which can be found on www.communityfoundation.ie.
