CompareNI doubles charity prize pot to 10k

CompareNI.com is doubling its charity efforts in a bid to support even more clubs and community groups across the country.

The price comparison site has announced a major expansion to its Fish4Funds community project, with the charity prize pot increasing to £10,000.

The expanded scheme will now see 10 local organisations awarded £1000 each over the next year – twice the number of winners previously backed through the programme.

The Fish4Funds initiative was launched by CompareNI.com as part of its commitment to support local groups making a positive impact in their communities.

Since its inception in 2024, the project has provided vital financial aid to a wide range of groups across Northern Ireland, with previous winners including youth football teams, cricket, bowling and angling clubs, GAA organisations and community wellbeing groups.

The lucky winners have used the funding to purchase essential equipment, improve facilities, expand programmes and support outreach work.

Ian Wilson, Managing Director at CompareNI.com said the decision to double the funding came after overwhelming interest from community groups.

He added: “Whether they are supporting young people through sport, tackling loneliness, or improving mental wellbeing, local clubs and organisations are often the backbone of communities across Northern Ireland.

“We’ve seen a huge response since Fish4Funds first launched, with 116 groups applying for a share of the funding over the last two years.

“That’s why we’re delighted to double the charity pot to £10,000 this year and increase the number of winners from five to 10. We know even relatively small grants can make a huge difference to these clubs, who are doing incredible work in their communities but are often hamstrung by limited resources and rising running costs.

“As a price comparison site, our goal is to help families find savings and we’re proud that our community efforts are giving us the opportunity to continue to support people in Northern Ireland and put money directly into the hands of these important local initiatives. I would urge all groups to apply and let us know how they would benefit from a share of this funding.”

The news comes as CompareNI.com reveals the final two winners of 2025/26 – St Joseph’s Amateur Boxing Club in Derry/Londonderry and Pegasus Ladies Hockey Club in Belfast.

The Galliagh-based St Joseph’s ABC is a vital asset to the local community, helping young boys and girls learn the art of boxing whilst also instilling in them discipline, confidence and a great work ethic during training sessions. From its humble beginnings in a portable building over 30 years ago, to its bright and modern premises today, the club has come a long way thanks to its dedicated team of coaching staff and volunteers. The club plans to use the prize fund to add new equipment and further upgrade its facilities.

Meanwhile, Pegasus Ladies said the £1000 grant would be a huge boost for their teams, helping them to secure a new coach and providing some much-needed equipment to develop their players, such as new goalkeeper pads.

The Fish4Funds initiative was originally launched after research revealed 40% of families in Northern Ireland are involved in a local club or community organisation, with 90% believing they play an important role in community life.

However, almost a quarter (23%) said they know of a local club or group impacted by financial hardship, while 75% believe these important organisations do not receive enough funding.

Applications for the next round of Fish4Funds winners is now open, with 10 successful groups due to receive a £1,000 grant to support their activities and development.

Entries, open to all ages and all sports or community groups, can be made via a short online form: https://www.compareni.com/challengerod

CompareNI.com helps hundreds of thousands of families across Northern Ireland save money on everyday essentials including home, car and van insurance.