Community and voluntary organisations are being urged to apply for funding following a new partnership with Energia and GIY.

The two firms have launched 'Energia Get Ireland Growing' where a pool of €70,000 is available.

Organisations can apply for a piece of the funding until 31 January 2017, which will enable them to start or further develop a community food-growing project in their area.

The Energia Get Ireland Growing Fund will be split across three categories, 'Sow', 'Grow' and 'Harvest' with awards ranging from €500 to €2,000. Together GIY and Energia will support at least 85 community food growing groups from all across the country.

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Founder of GIY Michael Kelly said: "Energia Get Ireland Growing rewards and celebrates the community champions who are putting food back at the heart of their communities. These types of projects usually struggle to find funding and supports and we are delighted to partner with Energia on this shared vision to back incredible food growing initiatives with the 2017 fund."

Geoff Codd, Head of Marketing at Energia said: "Sustainability is central to everything Energia does. That's why we've invested €300m in new wind farms since 2008 and we’re the only energy supplier to provide 100% 'green' energy to Irish homes for the last three years in a row. So, we’re delighted to support smart and sustainable living through Energia Get Ireland Growing. Growing your own fruit and veg and living healthily and sustainably are clearly clever choices."

(CD)