Two-time Olympic Champion, Kellie Harrington, has teamed up with Coca-Cola Ireland and its strategic bottling partner, Coca-Cola HBC Ireland and Northern Ireland, to launch the 2025 Coca-Cola Thank You Fund.
With a grant total of €200,000, the Fund aims to support and empower youth interventions across the island of Ireland under the pillars of inclusion and inspiration, creating opportunities for education, employability, and leadership development among those aged 16-25.
Now celebrating its 15th year, the Coca-Cola Thank You Fund has awarded more than €1.7 million to 182 non-profit organisations, making a meaningful impact in communities across the island of Ireland.
Operating in partnership with the Irish Youth Foundation (IYF), and supporting partners YouthAction Northern Ireland, the Fund is inviting non-profit community groups to apply for a grant share of between €10,000 and €25,000 for projects that equip vulnerable young people with the skills, support and confidence needed to navigate life’s challenges and unlock their full potential.
Kellie Harrington, an advocate for youth intervention and its transformative power, was joined by previous Fund recipients, Way2Work, to launch this year’s Thank You Fund.
In 2024, Way2Work received a grant total of €15,000 to provide young people in remission from cancer with meaningful employment and training opportunities, empowering them to take control of their futures.
“Growing up, I saw how a lack of support can push young people in the wrong direction,” said Harrington.
A chance to find your purpose
“Sport taught me discipline, confidence, and resilience—skills that changed my life. Programmes like the Coca-Cola Thank You Fund give young people the same chance to find their purpose and believe in themselves.”
“It helps grassroots projects get off the ground, reach more young people, and provide opportunities they might never have had.”
“Community is everything to me. It’s where I found my first supporters, my role models, and my sense of belonging. It’s the people who cheer you on when you win and lift you up when you fall. That kind of support shapes who you are.”
“This isn’t just about the funding; it’s about what these local community projects unlock—hope, ambition, and a brighter future.”
Investing in Young People
“The Coca-Cola Thank You Fund is about more than just grants; it’s about investing in young people and their potential,” added Coca-Cola Ireland Country Manager, Agnese Filippi.
“This year, we aim to inspire young people to believe in a brighter future and empower them with the tools and confidence to make it happen.”
“By supporting local groups, we can help create meaningful change where it matters most.”
“With €200,000 in grants available, we are excited to see innovative projects that give young people the skills and confidence they need for their future, and to drive positive social change and make a real difference in their communities.”
“We’re also honoured to have Kellie Harrington as our ambassador. Her inspiring journey highlights the life-changing impact of local community support.”
Further Reading for Sport for Business members: Blackmore Launches Coca Cola Thank You Fund 2021
SPORT FOR BUSINESS PERSPECTIVE
This is a grant programme that gives meaningful amounts to organisations that can change lives. Using an ambassador like Kellie who is so firmly rooted in her community and a clear role model to young people is a winning choice.
WHAT’S UP NEXT?
Our Sport for Social Good Annual Review will be coming up later in the year, highlighting campaigns that are doing good from across our member organisations through the power of sport.
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