Funding is available to assist the operations of infrastructure charities, both regional or sub-regional, who work to support voluntary and community groups in Northern Ireland.

The EMPOWER programme is an initiative provided by the Halifax Foundation for Northern Ireland as part of its 'Better Together' strategy for the 2024-2028 period. Grants of up to £20,000 are available to support infrastructure charities with the delivery of strategic and transformational projects that do not duplicate government-supported activities.

Applications will be accepted from community organisations registered with the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland or other charity regulator within the UK or Ireland. Applications must support people residing in Northern Ireland.

Grants may be used for costs and activities including the following:

Research/publication costs.
Capacity building.
Materials and equipment.
Salary contributions.
Overheads/core costs.
Transport costs.
Volunteer expenses.
Training/tutor costs.
Activity costs.
Minor refurbishment.

The funding is intended to support projects commencing from September 2024, with applicants required to have a pre-application call with a member of the Halifax Foundation's Grants Team prior to submitting an application.

The deadline for applications is 28 June 2024 (12 noon).

For more information and to apply, please visit Empower - Halifax Foundation NI