We are conscious of the need to ensure that we enjoy a secure pipeline of reliable funding in order to fund our programme as it currently stands, finance the building and on going cost of a permanent management infrastructure and make possible the expansion of our programme in the future.

Over the first 5 years of our existence we have expended resources equivalent to approximately €400,000, made up of direct funding from Cornmarket Group Financial Services Ltd. together with management and other related assistance provided by Cornmarket, and from contributions made by those teachers who have travelled to India and Uganda. This is not taking into account the educational expertise provided by these teachers on a pro bono basis.

Cornmarket has confirmed a further grant of €50,000 for 2011. This, along with presence of Michael O’Brien, Managing Director of Cornmarket and Robert Power (who recently retired as Deputy Managing Director of Cornmarket) on the board of Global Schoolroom, confirms Cornmarket’s long-term commitment to the project.

Irish Life plc, Cornmarket’s parent company, selected Global Schoolroom as its international staff charity for 2010 and the resultant funds (€82,000) has allowed us continue the expansion of our programme in India (from 5 hubs to 8) and to appoint a CEO on a one year contract.

Teachers from Ireland and the UK who participate raise €2,000 each as part of their contribution.

Looking forward, now that we are a registered charity, we are investigating other potential sources of funding from a variety of state bodies, corporate funds and international foundations as well as looking towards our alumni and the general public.