The foundation’s main object is the relief of poverty and economic hardship, with a particular focus on those living close to, or below, the poverty line, in Sub Saharan Africa. However, it has extended this focus, to include a focus on alleviating hardship, and to helping solve social problems in Ireland, specifically through the support of those operating for social impact. Social Enterprises can provide considerable benefit, either to the specific communities they serve, or to the wider public, through a positive impact on the environment or by overcoming social issues. They are operated as businesses and therefore have a strong cost focus, with the aim of producing a profit that can be reinvested to achieve their social aim. There is a wide spectrum of social Enterprises in Ireland, that create employment and support many Government policy objectives in areas such as housing, labour and the environment.
The foundation established the Social Impact Hub at 30 Merrion Square to help build a community for those operating in the social impact space in Ireland. The aim is for collaboration and sharing of ideas and the facilitation of growth and learning for social enterprises.