Lidl reopens 2026 Green Fund for Derry’s eco-champs

Lidl Northern Ireland has announced the launch of the 2026 Lidl Green Fund, with applications now open to community groups, schools and charities across Northern Ireland for the chance to secure a share of £25,000 in funding. 

The initiative aims to support grassroots projects that tackle climate change, promote biodiversity and encourage more sustainable ways of living, with funding of £25,000 available for six standout projects - one per county - that aim to support strong sustainability initiatives across Northern Ireland. 

The Lidl Green Fund has been created to help local groups turn practical ideas into action and deliver projects with clear, lasting environmental impact.

Launching this year’s Lidl Green Fund, Radio Breakfast Show Presenter Paulo Ross said: "I am delighted to support Lidl Northern Ireland in launching the Lidl Green Fund again this year. It’s well known that I’m passionate about the natural environment and we are lucky to have such incredible landscapes and local spaces here in Northern Ireland.

"This fund gives community groups an opportunity to take action on sustainability at a local level and bring strong ideas to life. I am excited to see the projects that come forward this year and the positive impact they will have in communities across Northern Ireland."

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The launch follows the success of the fund’s first year, which supported six community-led projects across Northern Ireland, including a biodiversity trail at St Patrick’s and St Joseph’s Primary School in Garvagh, County Derry. 

The project has helped pupils engage more closely with the natural environment while supporting wider sustainability learning.

Catherine Ball, Principal of St Patrick’s and St Joseph’s said: “The funding from the Lidl Green Fund has been invaluable in helping us develop our biodiversity trail and teach children the importance of caring for the natural environment in which we live, helping to secure a greener future.

"As an Eco-School, this project reflects our commitment to understanding and valuing the environment around us, made up of both people and the wider natural world.

"Providing a safe outdoor space where children can learn about and explore nature has been a fantastic asset to our school, supporting both pupil wellbeing and our sustainability goals.”

Elaine O’Connor, Head of Sustainability at Lidl Ireland & Northern Ireland, commented: "The Lidl Green Fund was created to show how local action can help build a better future. We have already seen the value of backing community-led projects that deliver practical environmental benefits on the ground across Northern Ireland.

"As applications open for 2026, we want to hear from schools, charities and community groups with ambitious ideas that can help create greener, healthier and more sustainable places to live."

Until May 18, Lidl Northern Ireland invites applications from: Registered Charities, Primary and Secondary Schools, and Community & Youth Groups.

Projects should align with key environmental themes, including climate and biodiversity, circular economy and waste reduction, and sustainable living.

Named Sustainable Retail Business of the Year at the 2024 Business Eye Awards, and Best Large Business at the Belfast Telegraph Business Awards 2026, Lidl Northern Ireland continues to support communities across the region through initiatives that promote environmental responsibility and community action.

For more information on the application process and eligibility, CLICK HERE.