DAERA Minister Andrew Muir announced £1.65 million in funding through the 2025/26 Rural Micro Capital Grant Scheme to 1,029 rural voluntary and community organisations in Northern Ireland.

Grants ranged from £500 to £2,000. Organisations used the funds to buy capital items or complete minor works addressing poverty and social isolation in local areas.

Muir visited Glens Red Squirrel Group in the Glens of Antrim. The group protects red squirrel populations there. It has received more than £11,500 since 2015 for environmental improvements, wildlife protection equipment, and community engagement.

The scheme supports projects under DAERA's Tackling Rural Poverty and Social Isolation Framework. It aids rural groups in addressing poverty, isolation, loneliness, and health issues.

Muir thanked the organisations for their work providing opportunities to rural communities.

Rural Support Networks administers the scheme for DAERA. Breige Conway, Manager of Northern Area Community Network, stated the funding enables practical projects that reduce rural isolation, build capacity, improve spaces, and foster community connections.