Local sports enthusiasts pictured at Tourmakeady GAA’s handball court, funded through a Social Finance loan with Community Finance Ireland.
Social Finance Foundation has launched a new How-to Guide to encourage more community organisations across Mayo to apply for Social Finance.
The online Guide here supported by PTSB and Community Finance Ireland (CFI), sets out a community-focused application process with a quick turnaround, minimal red tape and no guarantees required.
Tourmakeady GAA Club’s handball court was funded through a Social Finance Loan with Community Finance Ireland. The club has also embarked on an ambitious project which involves the development of a second pitch, a full-size sports hall with two new dressing rooms, and the refurbishment of the existing clubhouse, helped with social finance provided by CFI.
Tourmakeady GAA, Treasurer David Lally said: “We used to have a small clubhouse with two rooms. Now we have an indoor sports hall, with people playing basketball, and people using the gym. We probably have the best facilities in the county right now.”
Social Finance Foundation (SFF) CEO Garrett O’Donohoe said: “All community and voluntary groups, social enterprises and grassroots sports projects are eligible to apply for social finance. The Guide sets out clearly the steps involved. An application can be approved within just three weeks.
“Through this initiative community groups and voluntary organisations, can access loans of between €10,000 to €1,000,000 plus, without personal guarantees.”