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Dublin, 31 July 2025 – Minister of State for Migration, Colm Brophy, has announced the launch of a €2.7 million funding initiative to support the integration and employment of migrants in Ireland. The funding is available under the Integration and Employment of Migrants action of the Employment, Inclusion, Skills and Training (EIST) Programme 2021–2027, co-funded by the European Union through the European Social Fund Plus (ESF+) and the Government of Ireland.
Supporting Inclusive Employment
The fund is open to non-governmental and community organisations delivering projects that improve employability for migrants facing barriers such as language difficulties, lack of training, or social exclusion. Eligible applicants must propose initiatives that support:
- EEA nationals residing in Ireland
- Third Country nationals with permission to work in Ireland, including Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection fleeing the war in Ukraine
A minimum grant of €200,000 is available per project, with funding aimed at a small number of high-impact initiatives.
Ministerial Statement
Minister Brophy stated:
“Migrants bring valuable skills and experience to Ireland’s labour market. This fund will help ensure they have the support needed to overcome obstacles and access meaningful employment opportunities.”
Application Details
Applications must be submitted via email to [email protected] by 12:00 noon on Thursday, 11 September 2025. Further details and application forms are available on gov.ie.
Evaluation Criteria
Proposals will be assessed based on:
- Strategic alignment with EIST Programme goals
- Organisational capacity to deliver
- Strength and impact of the proposal
- Value for money
Examples of Successful Projects
- MEAS Project (Donegal): Recruits and mentors 225 migrants to improve employability through skills assessment and training.
- Gateway to Employment (Midwest and Midlands): Addresses language barriers and lack of local experience through employer engagement and tailored support.
- EPIC Programme (Nationwide): Offers career counselling, psychosocial support, IT training, and access to employment opportunities through Business in the Community Ireland.
Minister-of-State-for-Migration-Colm-Brophy-TD-Picture-By-Houses-of-the-Oireachtas