Community Groups Invited to Explore New Funding Opportunities

Community groups, voluntary organisations and social enterprises from across Newry, Mourne and Down District Council’s Mournes, Downpatrick, Rowallane and Slieve Croob District Electoral Areas (DEAs) are being encouraged to attend a Funding Fair this November.

The event takes place at Ballynahinch Community Centre in Windmill Street on Thursday 12 November between 5pm and 8pm, bringing together a range of funding providers and support organisations under one roof, offering local groups a unique opportunity to explore funding streams, seek advice and make valuable connections.

The Funding Fair has been organised by the DEAs to support organisations of all sizes, whether they are well-established groups looking to develop new projects or smaller community organisations seeking funding for the first time.

Attendees will have the opportunity to speak directly with funders and support agencies, learn about available grants and programmes, and gain practical information on how to strengthen future funding applications.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Glyn Hanna said, “Community and voluntary organisations play a crucial role in improving the lives of people across our district.

“The Funding Fair is designed to make it easier for groups to access information, build relationships with funding bodies and discover opportunities that can help turn their ideas into reality. We would encourage any organisation looking for funding support or advice to come along and make the most of this free event."

Cllr Hanna said community and voluntary organisations are the backbone of local life and make a lasting difference to people's daily lives.

The Chairperson added: “Come along, make connections with funders and discover the opportunities that could help your organisation grow and thrive. Having so much expertise under the one roof provides an invaluable opportunity to gain valuable insights, build new relationships and explore a range of funding opportunities. This event is about supporting organisations by providing direct access to funding bodies, practical advice and valuable networking opportunities.”

The Ballynahinch event is expected to attract a wide range of exhibitors representing funding programmes, grant-making organisations and support agencies with expertise in community development, capacity building and social enterprise support.

The Funding Fair is open to representatives from community and voluntary groups operating throughout the Downpatrick, Mournes, Rowallane and Slieve Croob DEA areas.

Admission is free and no specialist funding experience is required. For further information, contact nicola.whyte@nmandd.org