Community groups across the west can now avail of cash from the Challenge Fund.
The fund originates from the five pence that is gathered from the sale of carrier bags.
Ulster Unionist assemblywoman, Rosemary Barton, has welcomed the news that the Minister has decided to launch the fund.
The Fermanagh and South Tyrone MLA says the fund aims to benefit community groups through environmental projects.
High Court told Gerry Adams ‘major, major player in war!'
Natalie McNally murder accused ‘lied and lied again’
Woman dies in two-vehicle collision in Enniskillen
Little-Pengelly leads mission to showcase NI in Washington on St Patrick’s Day
Psychiatrists warn of ‘workforce crisis’ facing NI mental health services