Medtronic, the global leader in medical technology, has called on eligible charities around Ireland with innovative health proposals to apply to the Medtronic Healthy Communities Fund which is now open for applications until 15th September 2015.
In June Medtronic announced a €1 million commitment over three years to health charity funding in Irish communities, in partnership with local funding partners, The Community Foundation for Ireland and The Ireland Funds.
The Medtronic Healthy Communities Fund will seek to work with national charities or not-for-profit organisations with innovative proposals that address one of three core objectives: better access to health care; health promotion; and assuring health equality in communities around Ireland.
A key focus for year one is to support projects with a national reach that have the potential to be replicated in communities across the country.
Alma Curran, Philanthropy Lead, Medtronic, said: “The purpose of establishing this programme is to promote health at the community level, especially for those who have been traditionally at risk for chronic diseases or are challenged in accessing existing healthcare services. Consistent with Medtronic’s global vision of building healthy communities by expanding access to healthcare for the under-served worldwide, these partnerships with Irish organisations will enable Medtronic to contribute to reducing health inequalities in line with the Government’s ‘Healthy Ireland’ framework.
“Applications are open until the 15th of September and I’d encourage all organisations to go online atwww.foundation.ie to see if they are eligible to apply. We’re looking forward to hearing from organisations on the ideas they have.”
Tina Roche, CEO of The Community Foundation for Ireland, stated: “We are delighted to partner with Medtronic on this strategic three year fund. The Medtronic Healthy Communities Fund will provide much needed support to non-profit organisations working in the health sector. It is a fantastic initiative and I would encourage charities to apply.”
The first phase of funding is now open with €180,000 available to charities or not-for-profit organisations based in Ireland. Organisations can apply for a minimum grant of €20,000 and a maximum grant of €50,000.
The judges are looking for organisations to demonstrate how their idea can be replicated by others in communities across the country in Years 2 and 3 of the programme. The application process will be coordinated by the Community Foundation for Ireland.
Applications for funding will be accepted online up until the 15th of September 2015 through the Community Foundation for Ireland. Details on the Fund are available at www.foundation.ie and queries can be directed by email via Medtronic@foundation.ie.
Once applications have been received a judging panel will come together to review the applications and assess them based on the criteria and objectives identified by Medtronic. Funding will be announced in November.