Request for Applications: AI for Good Fund (Ireland)

The AI for Good Fund is a €1.75 million initiative by Rethink Ireland, supported by Google.org and the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht (DRCDG) via the Dormant Accounts Fund. This fund supports Irish not-for-profits in adopting AI to enhance their missions and promote social innovation. Open for applications from 30 September 2026 to 9 November 2026.

Opportunity at a Glance:

- Provider: Rethink Ireland, supported by Google.org and DRCDG

- Funding Amount: Up to €15,000 per organization

- Eligible Applicants: Irish not-for-profits

- Geographic Focus: Republic of Ireland

- Deadline: 9 November 2026

- Program Duration: 12-month AI Accelerator program

About the Opportunity

The AI for Good Fund aims to bridge the gap in AI knowledge among not-for-profits by facilitating a two-stage process. The initiative started with Discovery Days across Ireland, addressing the scarcity of AI training and integration. The second stage is an AI Accelerator program designed to guide up to 30 not-for-profits in creating their AI adoption roadmap.

Funding and Benefits:

- Financial Support: Up to €15,000 for AI adoption

- Program Participation: Includes peer learning, expert guidance, and support in developing AI strategies

- Non-Financial Support: Customized assistance according to each organization’s needs

Who Is Eligible?:

- Must be a not-for-profit with a legal form such as a company limited by guarantee, co-operative, trust, or charity - Must address critical social issues and have potential for innovation and scaling in Ireland - Must be based on the island of Ireland with a primary impact in the Republic of Ireland - Must have identified AI as a solution to a problem and have digital capacity

Exclusions:

- Organizations focused on research, political activities, or animal welfare - Entities based outside Ireland or led by individuals younger than 18

Eligible Activities or Priority Areas:

- Adoption and integration of AI to solve identified organizational challenges - Upskilling staff in AI tools and technologies - Development of AI strategies through practical workshops and webinars

Why This Opportunity Matters:

This fund addresses the critical need for AI literacy and adoption among not-for-profits in Ireland. By equipping organizations with AI capabilities, the fund fosters social innovation and strengthens community impact.

How to Apply:

- Access the Online Portal: Apply from 30 September 2026 to 9 November 2026.

- Prepare Application Materials: Include information about your organization, identified problems, and digital tool usage.

- Submit Financial Documents: Provide recent audited accounts and, if applicable, project management accounts.

- Attend Webinars (Optional): Join information sessions on eligibility and the application process.

Application Tips or Common Mistakes:

- Ensure all sections of the application form are completed accurately. - Clearly demonstrate your organization’s readiness and capacity to adopt AI. - Avoid submitting multiple applications from the same organization.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can previously funded organizations apply? Yes, previous recipients of Rethink Ireland awards can apply. Is the fund limited to large organizations? No, organizations of all sizes can apply if they meet the not-for-profit criteria. Is collaboration allowed in applications? Yes, collaborations are permitted, but one organization must lead the application. Do applicants need to use Google tools? No, the program is AI agnostic regarding tool preference. Can an organization in its ideation stage apply? No, the organization must be operational and beyond the ideation stage.

Next Steps:

Interested applicants should review the official guidelines and apply through the online portal by the deadline. This is a valuable opportunity for not-for-profits to enhance their impact through AI, supported by expert guidance and financial investment.