Issue 82 - Belfast BT4 • BT5 • BT16
90k fund to support Social Economy
Belfast City Council has opened the Social Economy Incentive Fund worth £90,000 to help support Belfast based social enterprises and co-operatives.
Colin Barkley, Chairman of Northern Ireland Children to Lapland and Days to Remember Trust (NICLT), Paddy Raff, Pete Snodden, and Gerry Kelly, President of NICLT
Celebs Join Christmas Charity Effort!
Two of Northern Ireland’s most recognisable personalities have pledged their support to a local charity that creates unforgettable experiences for children living with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions. Pete Snodden, long-time presenter of Cool FM’s flagship breakfast show, and multi-award-winning comedian Paddy Raff have been announced as new ambassadors for the Northern Ireland Children to Lapland and Days to Remember Trust (NICLT).
They join a growing list of high-profile supporters including rugby legend Tommy Bowe, country music star Nathan Carter, and former Northern Ireland Women’s Football Team captain Marissa Callaghan. As ambassadors, Pete and Paddy will play a key
role in raising awareness and vital funds for the charity’s work—not just at Christmas, but all year round. Now in its 17th year, Northern Ireland Children to Lapland and Days to Remember Trust is preparing for its annual trip to Lapland
in December - a magical journey that has brought joy and respite to over 1,700 children across Northern Ireland, with only two breaks due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
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The competitive fund offers grants of up to £10,000 to boost the social economy and address social deprivation in the city. There are two categories aimed at new social enterprises and those who are operating for over 3 years. The application process includes a short application form and participation in a Dragons’ Den style pitching event. Shortlisted organisations will be invited to make a five-minute pitch on Monday 24 November 2025 to a judging panel
of local social enterprise stakeholders, outlining the social value and impact the award would have on their organisation and beneficiaries. Winners will be selected based on their application and pitch to receive a grant depending on whether they are competing for the start up or growth award. The deadline for online applications is Tuesday 11 November 2025 at 4pm. For more information and to access the online application, go to www. b e l f a s t c i t y. g o v. u k / socialincentivefund