Under the EU Just Transition Fund (JTF), extra financing is available for initiatives that strengthen the community's assets, address a need, and either generate new employment opportunities or extend the viability of current ones in the region.

The JTF is a new fund designed to ensure that no one is left behind in the socioeconomic transition and to help the communities and areas of Europe that are most adversely affected by the move towards climate neutrality.

Proposals for the new request are welcome from projects located in Laois, Offaly, Longford, and the municipal districts of Ballinasloe (County Galway), Athy, and Clane-Maynooth (County Kildare).

Applications must show that they are in line with the "Local Economic and Community Plans" of the relevant counties by 30 September.

"This call, under Ireland's EU Just Transition Fund program, represents a further opportunity for local economies to avail of funding that will assist the shift towards a carbon-neutral future," stated Eamon Ryan, Minister of the Environment.

"This funding will support the development of projects that contribute towards sustainable development in the midlands by creating employment opportunities and enhancing economic diversification."

This financing appeal marks the third time that direct support is being offered to help local and regional economic strategies be implemented.

Launched in the fall of 2023, the initial appeal was aimed towards bigger initiatives and local administrations. For a total of €18 million, 15 projects were chosen.

Following in early 2024, a second funding call—the Community and Enterprise Grants scheme—was established for small-to medium-sized businesses and local community organisations. It has already distributed over €3.8 million in grant financing to 15 sustainability-focused initiatives.