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Social Enterprises Fund

The Social Enterprise Capital Grants Scheme 2021 is one initiative being taken by the Department of Rural and Community Development under the Policy to support social enterprises and is complementary to other supports provided by the Department.

It is anticipated that the small scale nature of the grants under this scheme will particularly benefit smaller or start-up social enterprises which do not necessarily have the capacity to compete for larger grants, but which nonetheless have a need for upgraded/additional equipment to help them to deliver their services.

The scheme is being administered on behalf of the Department of Rural and Community Development by the network of Local Community Development Committees (LCDCs) across the country.

The deadline for receipt of completed applications is 4pm on Friday 15th of October 2021

The scheme is being administered on behalf of the Department of Rural and Community Development by the network of Local Community Development Committees (LCDCs) across the country. Applications are sought for projects up to a maximum of €5,000.

Only social enterprises, as defined in the National Social Enterprise Policy (see below), may apply under this scheme. All applicants will be checked and verified to ensure they meet the definition. Applicants who do not meet this definition will not be considered.

  • A Social Enterprise is an enterprise whose objective is to achieve a social, societal or environmental impact, rather than maximising profit for its owners or shareholders.
  • It pursues its objectives by trading on an ongoing basis through the provision of goods and/or services, and by reinvesting surpluses into achieving social objectives. 
  • It is governed in a fully accountable and transparent manner and is independent of the public sector.  If dissolved, it should transfer its assets to another organisation with a similar mission.

All enquiries in relation to the Social Enterprise Capital Grants Scheme 2021 should be directed to Clare Local Community Development Committee (LCDC) at lcdc@clarecoco.ie or 065-6846498.

Page last reviewed: 28/09/21

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