Community and non-governmental organisations can now apply for funding to deliver projects that boost the job prospects of migrants living in Ireland. The fund, worth up to €2.7 million, is designed to help people overcome obstacles such as limited English, gaps in training, or social exclusion.
The initiative was announced at the end of July by Minister of State for Migration Colm Brophy. Funding is being offered through the Integration and Employment of Migrants strand of the Employment, Inclusion, Skills and Training (EIST) Programme 2021–2027, which is co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the EU via the European Social Fund Plus (ESF+).
The closing date for applications is 12 noon on Thursday, 11 September.
Programme Priorities
EIST is Ireland’s ESF+ programme for the 2021–2027 period and is guided by the European Pillar of Social Rights. It is built around five priorities:
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Employment
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Skills and Lifelong Learning
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Social Inclusion
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Social Innovation
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Assistance to the Most Deprived
Who Can Apply?
Funding is available to organisations running projects that support:
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EEA nationals living in Ireland.
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Third Country Nationals with permission to work in Ireland, including those granted Temporary Protection after fleeing the war in Ukraine.
Only a small number of large-scale projects will be supported. The minimum grant available is €200,000. Applications must be submitted by email to iem@justice.ie. Full details and application forms are available at gov.ie.
How Applications Will Be Assessed
Proposals will be evaluated on:
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The strength and clarity of the project plan.
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Alignment with the goals of the Integration and Employment of Migrants strand of EIST.
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The applicant organisation’s ability to deliver.
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Value for money
