Involved in communities, committed to playing our part

ESB ElectricAID Ireland FAQs

How does the fund work?

Every quarter, ESB will allocate an amount from the fund for disbursement. The amount may vary because of seasonal considerations - wintertime and Christmas may require more funding than summer. Applications that come in for consideration during each 3 month period will be appraised at the end of the quarter and funding allocated accordingly.

When did it start?

We made our first fundings in September 2005. The fund has operated consistently since then. Find out more about ESB ElectricAID Ireland's background and history.

How do I apply?

Download an application form online or write to the fund administrator for a paper copy.

How much is in the fund?

We will be giving out €1 million a year for as long as the fund lasts. Some administration costs will come from the fund, but they will be kept to a minimum. The areas of need will be examined at least every three years.

How long will it last?

The initiative has been reviewed in 2008 and has been confirmed for another three years. The chosen areas of need are unchanged.

Will the fund be equally divided among the two areas of need?

No. Funding will be allocated on merit.

How much can I apply for?

We estimate most grants to be in the order of €10,000. From time to time we will approve grants of up to €40,000. 2 grants of up to €100,000 will be considered each year.

How often can I apply?

You can apply as often as you wish.

If you are consistently being turned down you should speak to the fund administrator.

If you have been very successful we may wish to spread the funding and you may not be considered. It is important to note that each project will be considered on its own merits and it will be funded if worthy.

Can I bring in a completed application form and talk to someone about it?

Yes. You can talk to the fund administrator.

How will applications be appraised?

A set of criteria will be applied against applications.

Things such as "immediate value" and "long-term" impact will be important as will "local contribution".

Can I find out why my application didn't succeed?

Yes. You can contact the fund administrator. However, generally if you don't succeed it will be because more impactful projects have been approved for this period.

You can apply again during the next quarter.

Can we use this fund to top up another contribution for a project?

Yes.

Can we get funding if we are not a registered charity?

Yes.

Do we have to give bank details?

Yes, in circumstances where the funding is larger than normal or where the applicant has no history of achievement.

Does it matter if we are only starting up as a group?

No. If the project has merit it will be funded. We may apply a more rigorous monitoring than normal.

What happens if we don't complete the project with the funding we received?

We would expect you to complete it with local contributions. Failure to complete the project may mitigate against you when making further applications.

Can I apply from Northern Ireland?

Yes, we fund both North and South.

Contact the fund administrator:

James Foley
Fund Administrator
ESB ElectricAID Ireland
27 Lower Fitzwilliam Street
Dublin 2

t: +353 1 702 7732
m: 087 790 4395
e: james.foley@esb.ie