Why it matters for Omagh and the wider community sector
A new funding opportunity has been launched by the Northern Ireland Office aimed at strengthening leadership and advocacy across the community and voluntary sector.
The Engagement for Change Fund is a three-year programme worth £100,000, designed to help organisations build the skills and confidence needed to represent their communities more effectively.
For organisations across Omagh and surrounding rural areas, this presents a valuable opportunity to strengthen how local voices are heard in decision-making processes — particularly at a time when community input is more important than ever.
Building stronger voices locally
The fund focuses on developing leadership, communication and advocacy skills within the sector. This includes helping organisations better understand how government policy works, how to engage with it, and how to communicate their message effectively.
There is also a strong emphasis on supporting women to take on more visible roles in public and policy discussions, helping to ensure broader representation across Northern Ireland’s civic landscape.
For many groups in Omagh, from social enterprises to grassroots organisations, this could support more confident engagement with regional policy and funding decisions that directly impact local communities.
What the programme will deliver
The funding will be awarded to one organisation to deliver a structured development programme over three years.
Support will focus on:
- strategic communication and advocacy
- understanding and navigating policy processes
- media engagement and digital skills development
This structured approach is designed to build long-term capacity across the sector, rather than short-term support.
Who can apply
Applications are open to organisations across Northern Ireland, including:
- social enterprises
- voluntary and community organisations
- civic society bodies
- national representative organisations operating locally
How to apply
To apply, organisations should submit the required documentation by emailing community.projects@nio.gov.uk
The deadline for applications is Friday 22 May 2026 at 5pm.
Find out more about the Engagement for Change Fund.
For organisations in Omagh and the wider region, this fund offers a chance to strengthen leadership, amplify local voices, and play a more active role in shaping policy that affects communities on the ground.
