Community Climate Action Fund

At Synergy Credit Union, we believe that meaningful climate action starts at home — in the towns, villages, and parishes we proudly serve.

That’s why we’re delighted to launch the Synergy Credit Union Community Climate Action Fund, a new initiative to support local, community-led climate and environmental projects. This fund reflects our long-standing commitment to sustainability, collaboration, and real impact

What Is the Community Climate Action Fund?

This fund will support community groups and organisations working on projects that address climate change, enhance biodiversity, improve energy efficiency, or increase climate awareness. We want to empower local groups to take practical, positive action that benefits both people and the planet.

Who Can Apply?

We welcome applications from:

• Community and voluntary groups
• Tidy Towns committees
• Sports clubs and GAA clubs
• Schools and youth groups
• Environmental or sustainability-focused organisations
• Residents’ associations and community councils

If your group is planning a project that tackles climate or environmental challenges, we’d love to hear from you.

Project Criteria

To be eligible for funding, projects must:

• Have an overall project budget of at least €5,000
• Demonstrate clear community and environmental benefits
• Be located within Synergy Credit Union’s common bond
• Be ready for implementation within 6 months of approval.
• The organisation must be in existence for a minimum of 12 months.

Synergy Credit Union will:

• Contribute a minimum of 20% of the total project cost, or €1,000, whichever is greater
• Provide funding up to a maximum of 50% of the total fund allocation, which equates to €30,000

For example, if your community project costs €10,000, Synergy may contribute between €2,000 (20%) and €5,000 (50%). Larger projects with a total value of €60,000 or more may be eligible for up to €30,000 in funding.

What Kind of Projects Are We Looking For?

We’re particularly interested in supporting initiatives such as:

• Energy efficiency upgrades in community buildings
• Renewable energy pilot projects (e.g. solar PV, LED upgrades)
• Biodiversity and rewilding schemes
• Circular economy or waste-reduction programmes
• School or youth climate education projects
• Active travel infrastructure (bike racks, safe routes)
• Local climate resilience initiatives

If your idea promotes sustainability, raises awareness, or reduces carbon emissions — it's worth applying.

Assessment Criteria

All applications will be assessed using a point-based scoring matrix to ensure fair and objective evaluation. Each proposal will be rated against the following criteria:

Each submission can earn up to 100 points in total. The top-scoring projects will be prioritised for funding, and evaluators will provide feedback where possible.

Funding Timeline

Applications open on 16th June 2025 and close on 21st September 2025.

How to Apply

Fill up the application form HERE :  or email p.morrissey@synergycu.ie to help with any questions or clarifications

Community Action, Climate Impact

Together, we can create a greener, stronger future.
Whether it’s solar panels for a community hall, a biodiversity trail in your local park, or a school campaign to reduce waste — Synergy Credit Union is here to support you.

Because this is your community, and this is where climate action matters most.