The Global Ireland Football Foundation (GIFF) has announced its founding Board of Directors and Director of Development as it prepares for a formal launch in March. 

Based in Ireland, the independent association will engage private individuals and corporate partners worldwide to fund grassroots football infrastructure.

Colin Ryan has been appointed Chair of the Board, joined by Susan Whelan, Ray Wilson, Tony Keohane, and Paul Cooke. Each brings extensive leadership experience and international networks to the initiative. Nichola Mullen will serve as Director of Development, tasked with shaping the Foundation’s strategy, managing partnerships, fundraising, and programme design.

Commenting on the appointments, Ryan said he is honoured to lead the Global Ireland Football Foundation and praised the Board’s diverse experience.

He added, “The goal of this Foundation is to support the excellent work that so many clubs, leagues, administrators, partners, stakeholders, fans and volunteers do to keep Irish football moving forward. This hugely important work deserves to be acknowledged but equally backed by sustainable investment. I would also like to thank Rory Higginbotham for the excellent work done in establishing the framework for the Foundation.”

GIFF has been set up as a limited company and independent legal entity to accelerate investment into much-needed facilities. The Foundation will provide a trusted platform for private funding to support the FAI’s Facility Investment Vision and Strategy, while promoting accessibility, equity, and youth participation across Ireland’s football ecosystem.

The official launch is scheduled for March, with further announcements regarding programmes and partnerships expected in the coming weeks.

Discover the full details of the board appointments and development strategy in the complete article.

(Photo credits to Football Association of Ireland’s official website)