FAQs

We’ve compiled a list of common questions below. If you don’t find your answer here, please contact us and we can help to answer your question.

What does the fund offer?

  • Cash grants each year for three years*
  • A strategic supports package to help organisations broaden and deepen their impact
  • A place on Rethink Ireland’s Accelerator Programme. (You can find out more about the Accelerator Programme under “What happens if our project is successful?”)
  • Project performance and impact management
  • Access to Rethink Ireland’s networks of civil society, Government and donors

*The Rethink Ireland Board decides how much money to award which may be less than that requested. The award depends on how many organisations are selected.

How do we apply?

The Equality Fund 2020-23 has closed for applications. To find out more about the successful projects, please visit the 2020 Awardees page.

Which projects cannot apply?

Projects that are not eligible to apply are those:

  • That do not seek to advance equality in Ireland
  • Seeking funds for capital items such as buildings, vans, renovations or equipment
  • Where research is the primary activity
  • Promoting or aligned with a political party
  • That only accept participants of a particular faith or religious denomination
  • Where the main impact is outside the Republic of Ireland
  • Led by people under 18 years of age

Who cannot apply?

  • Applicants under 18 years of age
  • Commercial companies
  • Rethink Ireland staff, directors and their immediate family members

What happens if our project is successful?

If successful we will invite you to take part in our Accelerator Programme which includes:

  • Mentoring
  • Strategic planning
  • Measuring the project’s impact
  • Communications training
  • Access to Rethink Ireland’s expertise and networks

Your project leader will be expected to devote at least two days a month to the programme.

What can we spend the grant on?

The grant can only be used for the scope outlined in the application submitted.
Please note: the grant cannot be used to pay off debts or buy land, buildings or equipment.

Who decides the award winners?

Rethink Ireland’s board makes the final decision on award winners.

What is the selection process?

  • Stage 1: Open call for applications
  • Stage 2: Selection process
  • Stage 3: Interviews
  • Stage 4: Final checks on shortlisted applicants
  • Stage 5: Final decision by Rethink Ireland’s board

How do we get feedback on our application?

  • If invited to the next round of the application process, you will be asked to attend an interview which the project leader or representative must attend.
  • If selected for an interview, we will share your application with the judges.
  • The Rethink Ireland board of directors chooses the winning applications. Its decision is based on recommendations from a panel of judges. The board’s decision is final.
  • The Equality Fund Manager may offer general verbal feedback to unsuccessful applicants who have reached the interview stage.

Who can I reach out to with questions?

You can contact The Equality Fund Team at equality@rethinkireland.ie