The Certified Proud Fund

We just wanna provide some fundamental rights

The Idea

As you might have noticed, we really care about making sure Ireland is LGBTQ+ friendly, 12 months of every year, till forever. That's why 40% of each Certified Proud membership fee goes into the Certified Proud Fund, which aims to support charities and projects that are already doing great things for the LGBTQ+ community. We just thought; what better way to truly help than to partner with other impact-focused organisations, all of whom are working towards the same overarching mission, in their own unique and important way.

The Approach

At the Certified Proud Fund, we understand the challenges of securing funding. As experienced fundraisers, we know that unrestricted funding is crucial and that lengthy application forms aren't always the best use of your time.

We want to know what you do, why you do it, what you'll use the money for, and how it will help. Requests are capped at €3,000 and can cover anything from events and salaries to essential supplies. This is a competitive process, so the more insight you provide into your impact, the better your chances.

Our mission is simple: support the LGBTQ+ community by funding organizations that promote inclusivity and equality. By empowering impactful initiatives, we aim to create safe and welcoming spaces for everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

The Formalities

To save time, please apply only if all of the following apply:

  • Your organisation operates on the island of Ireland.

  • You are a registered charity, organization, or affiliated with one.

  • Your organisation benefits the LGBTQ+ community (e.g., health, mental health, sports, networking, arts, music, education, etc.).

  • You commit to submitting a written report within 12 months of receiving funding.

  • You are comfortable sharing your win on social media and with stakeholders.

  • Preferably, a member of your organisation can attend the awards ceremony in Autumn 2024.

Past Awardees

  • Southhill Hub

    Southill Hub in Limerick provides a safe space for community growth through education and recreation. Their LGBTQI+ Youth Committee plans to use funding for events like Stand Up Week, awareness days, and community gatherings to foster positive relationships.

  • Na Gaeil Aeracha

    Na Gaeil Aeracha is Ireland’s first LGBTQ+ GAA club. Their mission is to offer members of the LGBTQ+ community and allies a safe space to make new friends, keep fit, and to connect with their national sport without fear of prejudice, judgement or harassment.

  • HIV Ireland

    HIV Ireland advocates for people living with HIV, prevents new infections, and combats stigma. They offer support, counseling, and outreach, focusing on at-risk groups including LGBTQ+ individuals, ethnic minorities, migrants, sex workers, and people who inject drugs.

  • The Switchboard

    The Switchboard offers confidential support and guidance to the LGBTQIA+ community, their friends, and families. Their goal is to expand diverse support services, meet the community's needs flexibly, and maintain a strong identity within the LGBTQIA+ community and beyond.

Funding Impacts

Funding Impacts

  • "Certified Proud funding has empowered Southill Hub to foster inclusivity, challenge stereotypes, and create safe spaces, positively impacting 126 individuals in the LGBTI+ community through transformative events and programs."

    -Southhill Hub

  • "Certified Proud has been instrumental in Na Gaeil Aeracha's growth, enabling us to scale our club, launch new codes, and provide a safe, inclusive space for more people to connect with Ireland's national sports."

    -Na Gaeil Aeracha

  • “Certified Proud’s funding has enabled The Switchboard to professionally train and upskill volunteers, enhancing support services and ensuring inclusive, high-quality care for the queer community.”

    -The Switchboard