A new €1.6 million fund has been launched to tackle disparities in opportunity and access to employment for marginalised young adults.
The Empower Tech Futures Fund is being provided by Rethink Ireland with the support of JPMorganChase, the Department of Rural and Community Development and BNY.
The three-year fund will award cash grants and provide dedicated business support to up to five projects or organisations based in Dublin and/or Cork committed to breaking down the barriers that prevent vulnerable young adults from accessing employment.
These challenges include a lack of awareness about career opportunities, gaps in essential technical and digital skills sought by employers, and insufficient support networks to secure and sustain meaningful employment.
The fund is designed to provide young adults with the confidence and connections to build lasting careers by tackling obstacles through skills training and direct work placements.
“Every young person deserves the opportunity to build a brighter future, regardless of their background,” said Deirdre Mortell, CEO, Rethink Ireland.
“Over the next three years, this fund will equip young adults with the necessary skills, knowledge, and networks to thrive in the 21st-century workforce bridging the skills gap, breaking down barriers to employment, providing holistic support, building employability skills, as well as enhancing the workforce development ecosystem,” Ms Mortell said.
Marc Hussey, Senior Country Officer with JPMorganChase Ireland, said business has a role to play in tackling challenges to employment in Ireland, including difficulty accessing technical skills and support networks.
“Our firm is committed to advancing a sustainable and inclusive economy and the Empower Tech Futures Fund is a crucial part of these efforts in Ireland,” Mr Hussey said.
Rethink Ireland provides cash grants and business support to charities and social enterprises working in Irish communities across the country.
The organisation works with companies, families, individuals, foundations and the Irish Government.
