Mitigating Against Educational Disadvantage Fund – Call For Funding

Mitigating Against Educational Disadvantage Fund (MAEDF):
Calling all Community Education providers/groups: Open Call for Funding!

DDLETB Further Education and Training (FET) Service in conjunction with SOLAS has launched an open call for funding aimed primarily at local Community Education Providers/Groups.

The Mitigating Against Educational Disadvantage Fund (MAEDF) aims to address educational disadvantage which may be experienced by learners and has a particular focus on supporting the engagement and re-engagement of learners in the community. This call aims to reduce barriers to participation in FET by facilitating wider access to digital technologies, equipment, materials etc.

The Mitigating Against Educational Disadvantage Fund (MAEDF) of €8 million was announced as part of Budget 2021.

The purpose of the fund is to support community education provision targeted at adult learners, who have the highest level of need. It aims to increase the participation of disadvantaged learners, particularly those on literacy and basic skills programmes at NFQ levels 1 to 3. The fund has a strong focus on building the digital infrastructure of community education providers and increasing their capacity in delivering online learning.

Administration of the MAEDF Grant

Funds are allocated by SOLAS to DDLETB, who is responsible for the administration and management of funding within its region.

Expenditure

Approved funding allocation for any activity under the MAEDF must;

(a) Be used for the specific purpose intended

(b) All expenditure to be completed by 2020 year-end

(c) Not to be used for any pay costs or costs of a recurring nature

(d) Be compliant with Circular DPR 13/14 governing the payment of grants

(e) A tax clearance certificate for the grantee organisation must accompany each application.

(f) Maintain records of expenditure for audit purposes.

Applications for funding can be under one or more of these four strands:

1: Digital Technologies

2: Learner Assistance

3: Reach Out/Mentoring

4: Covid 19 Exceptional Circumstances

Click here for the Application Form

Click here for the DDLETB MAEDF Funding Guidelines (Updated 18 Nov)

Click here to learn more about the DDLETB Mitigating against Educational Disadvantage Fund (MAEDF)

Closing date: 27th November 2020

Contact aedinotoole@ddletbaes.ie for more information.