Coca-Cola Thank You Fund to surpass €2 million as applications open for 2026

€100,000 in grant funding is available this year to support programmes focused on the theme of Inclusion and Wellbeing for Future Work Readiness.

This year’s launch comes as the fund reaches a major milestone, with over €2 million invested in local communities since it originated in 2011.

For 2026, €100,000 in grant funding is available for youth-focused projects supporting young people aged 16 – 25 develop the confidence, capabilities and practical life skills needed to successfully navigate education, training and employment pathways

 For 2026, €100,000 in grant funding is available for youth-focused projects supporting young people aged 16 – 25 develop the confidence, capabilities and practical life skills needed to successfully navigate education, training and employment pathways.

Operated in partnership with the Irish Youth Foundation and supported by YouthAction Northern Ireland, this year's fund will support programmes that empower young people under the theme of Inclusion and Wellbeing for Future Work Readiness.

Eligible organisations can apply for grants between €5,000 and €15,000.

Speaking on the launch, Country Manager at Coca-Cola Ireland, Amruta Vaidya, commented: “This year’s focus on inclusion and wellbeing for future work readiness recognises the challenges many young people are navigating today.

"By continuing to support local community groups delivering meaningful local interventions, we hope to empower more young people with the skills, resilience and support systems they need to reach their full potential.”

The Fund is supporting projects for young people experiencing disadvantage across three key areas: employability and skills development, education access and progression, and wellbeing and personal development. This includes programmes that help build both practical and soft skills such as communication, teamwork and resilience, as well as supporting continued engagement in education or training.

Now in its 16th year, the Thank You Fund has supported nearly 200 non-profit organisations across Ireland and Northern Ireland.

From employability initiatives to wellbeing programmes, it has helped young people gain better opportunities, as well as the tools to shape their own futures.

Speaking on the fund, Simon Fitzpatrick, General Manager at Coca-Cola HBC Ireland and Northern Ireland, said: “We’re proud to continue our partnership with Coca-Cola Ireland on the Coca-Cola Thank You Fund and to support vital programmes creating lasting impact in communities across Ireland and Northern Ireland.”

CEO of the Irish Youth Foundation, Sarah Edmonds, added:

“Through the Coca-Cola Thank You Fund, we’re proud to continue partnering with organisations responding directly to the needs of young people in local communities across Ireland.

“This year’s focus reflects the realities youth services are seeing every day, with growing demand for programmes that promote wellbeing, inclusion and pathways into education and employment. We encourage community groups to apply and play a role in creating brighter, more inclusive futures for our young people.”

Applications for this year’s Coca-Cola Thank You Fund can be submitted online before Friday, June 26.