Local groups awarded under Tullamore Credit Union Community Support Fund 2026
Local groups awarded under Tullamore Credit Union Community Support Fund 2026
LAST Wednesday, April 22, marked a truly memorable night at Esker Arts with the Tullamore Credit Union Community Support Fund 2026 presentation event.
A much anticipated highlight of the credit union year, the event showcased the organisation’s ongoing commitment to the local community.
As CEO Paul Shaw noted, “It’s about reinvesting in our community and backing the initiatives that make a real difference.”
This year saw the highest number of applications since the fund began, with 212 groups applying. In response to a strong financial year, Tullamore Credit Union increased its Community Support Fund for 2026 from €100,000 to €300,000, reinforcing its commitment to supporting members and the wider community. While this allowed more groups to benefit, not all applications were successful, and all applicants were invited to attend the presentation event, where an update on the new and enhanced application and assessment process was shared.
With the increase in funding an external governance review was undertaken. This review has resulted in a number of improvements to the application and adjudication process. These changes are designed to ensure greater transparency, consistency, and clarity in decision-making.
The application process has been broken into three distinct streams, CSFA (Community Support Fund Award) CSFB (Community Support Fund Benefit) applications, Capital & Pilot Programme applications with the Capital and Pilot Programme streams requiring more detailed supporting documentation in recognition of the higher levels of funding involved.
DCEO Caroline Collins Murphy opened proceedings by welcoming everyone and thanking them for turning out in such great numbers. She formally launched the credit union’s Pride in your Place competition which is running for over 20 years.
Application forms for the Pride in your Place competition are available on the credit union website and in the credit union offices, the closing date is Wednesday, May 6. Caroline handed over to Matt Worgan, ESG Manager with Tullamore Credit Union who highlighted the growing importance of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles as he presented three special ESG awards, now an integral part of the Credit Union’s awards programme. He outlined how ESG builds on the Credit Union’s longstanding community ethos, supporting sustainability, community wellbeing, and strong governance throughout the year. Emphasising member involvement, Matt encouraged ideas from the community to help make the area an even better place to live and members can do so by emailing [email protected]. The 2026 ESG awards saw funding granted to Cappincur Community for a new public defibrillator, Cloghan Community Development Community Support Fund 2026 Association for park restoration works, and Kilclonfert GAA for the installation of
solar panels as part of its sustainability plan.
Chairperson Eileen Brophyoutlined that the Community Support Fund is how the credit union gives back to members and the community. This year, the fund increased from €100,000 to €300,000 following a strong financial year. The Board carefully manages members’ funds and reviews the allocation annually.
The credit union remains proud of its community involvement, with highlights including the Raise Your Voice Community Quiz events in Tullamore and Rahan, which strengthened community connections and engagement.
Deputy CEO Caroline Collins Murphy outlined the updated process following the expansion of the Community Support Fund. An external governance review led to changes to improve clarity and transparency in how applications are assessed. All applications were reviewed and scored in line with governance guidelines, with different requirements for smaller and larger funding requests.
Not all applications were successful this year, and successful projects will be subject to terms and conditions to ensure funds are used as outlined. Unsuccessful groups are encouraged to reapply next year, with support available. Caroline also reminded groups about Community Accounts and the availability of Community Loans, both secured and unsecured.
Presentations on the night included awards to Cloghan CDA / Park Area and Kilclonfert GAA Club from the ESG fund presented by Matt Worgan. This was followed by announcements of CSFA (Community Support Fund Award) to groups such as Kilcormac Development Association Community Centre, Daingean Grand Canal Wheelers, and the Age Active Arden View Group, among others.
Attention then turned to CSFB (Community Support Fund Benefit) funding recipients, which included Offaly Heritage Centre, Clonaslee Tidy Towns, Raheen GAA Club, and Killeigh Tidy Towns, to name just a few.
The night concluded with the announcement of major Capital Pilot Funding awards to organisations such as ODVSS, Tullamore Rugby Club, Frankford Football Club, and Killina Presentation Secondary School, among others.
Caroline also extended her sincere thanks to everyone who attended on the night and gave a special mention to photographer Niall O’Mara, who captured hundreds of photos throughout the evening. Any group wishing to receive a copy of their photograph can do so by emailing the Member Engagement Team at [email protected].
Caroline outlined the credit union’s commitment to supporting the completion of applications and that the Member Engagement Team are available to run workshops if desired ahead of next year’s event noting the changes which were incorporated.