Galway County Council has announced a €762,000 Community Climate Action Fund aimed at supporting grassroots efforts to implement climate action projects across the county.

Launched during Climate Action Week, the initiative offers full financial support to not-for-profit organisations, including community and voluntary groups such as Tidy Towns committees, development associations and sports clubs.

Eligible projects will align with one or more of five key climate themes: community energy, sustainable transport, local food promotion, circular economy and waste reduction, and local environmental action.

To celebrate the launch, the Council hosted a showcase event at Brigit’s Garden in Rosscahill, where attendees explored successful projects and received guidance on applying for the 2025 fund.

Applications are open via Galway County Council’s application portal galwaycoco.submit.com and will close on December 16.

The 2024 round of funding backed 32 diverse initiatives across County Galway, from solar panel installations and energy-efficient lighting to cycling infrastructure, community gardens, and water refill stations.

County Council Cathaoirleach, Cllr David Collins, described the fund as “a major opportunity for local communities to make a real difference.”

“From small rural groups to larger organisations, everyone can play a part in building a more sustainable future for Galway,” he said

Chief Executive of Galway County Council Liam Conneally praised the impact of the 2024 projects, noting the Council’s pride in supporting a wide range of climate-focused initiatives.

“The range and quality of projects supported in 2024 show the positive impact that communities across County Galway are having in addressing climate change,” he said.

“These initiatives are also delivering tangible benefits for communities, helping to reduce energy expenses and enhance the comfort of community buildings.”

To further support applicants, Galway County Council also partnered with the GRETB to offer a free online Climate Action Course. You can contact climateaction@galwaycoco.ie for assistance with Climate Fund applications.

Pictured: Launching Galway County Council’s Community Climate Action Fund were (from left) Kim O’Connor of the Climate Action Team; Council CE Liam Conneally; Climate Action Coordinator Tina Ryan; Cathaoirleach Cllr David Collins; Community Climate Action Officer Denise Feeney; Director of Services Uinsinn Finn, and Climate Action Officer Rebecca Mooney.