Supporting thriving communities with the Microsoft Community Fund for Dublin
The Microsoft Community Fund for Dublin managed by ChangeX, supports thriving communities near the Microsoft datacentre campus in Clondalkin by funding projects related to sustainability and digital skills. As part of 2025’s €100,000 fund, communities will be able to choose from a portfolio of exciting, proven ideas that have already had a positive impact in other communities around the world. These projects include a citizen science monitoring scheme to protect water sources, a programme to support the development of school gardens and local biodiversity, and an initiative aiming to tackle plastic pollution through turning waste into valuable materials.
The launch of the Community Fund builds on the extensive support Microsoft has invested in nonprofits, community groups, and schools in the vicinity of its datacentre operations in Clondalkin. Between 2008 and 2024, Microsoft provided more than €4 million in support to help build thriving, sustainable communities in this area.
Commenting on the launch of the fund, Lavinia Morris, General Manager of Microsoft datacentre operations for EMEA, said: “In 2024, Microsoft unveiled our Datacentre Community Pledge, highlighting our commitment to local economies and communities where we operate. As we build and operate a global network of advanced datacentres, we recognise the crucial role communities play in this ecosystem. The latest Microsoft Community Fund for South Dublin will help deliver on the key pillars of this pledge, advancing community prosperity and well-being, while contributing to a sustainable future, and operating responsibly as a good neighbour.”
Applications for funding are open to individuals, community groups, schools, and nonprofits across south and west Dublin. Funding of up to €4,500 per project is available, with a step-by-step application process in place to support groups to secure funding. Support is allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, with all applicants required to complete a 30-day challenge to unlock funding, which includes establishing a clear project action plan.
ChangeX is a community engagement platform designed to get funding and resources directly into the hands of ordinary people to lead impactful projects in their neighbourhoods. To date, Microsoft and ChangeX have launched more than 50 community funds across multiple countries, funding more than 850 community projects and affecting about 280,000 people.