Ireland announces community and sports grant schemes

Various funding opportunities have been announced for community and sports initiatives in Ireland.

Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council has opened applications for its 2027 Grants Scheme. The program supports community development, environmental projects, cultural activities, tourism, festivals, sport, and local business promotion. Eligible applicants include voluntary organizations, residents’ associations, artists, and sports clubs. The deadline for submissions is 1pm on Friday, 23 October 2026.

Additionally, the 2026 Community Sports Facilities Fund is now being promoted to clubs. Replacing the previous Sports Capital and Equipment Programme, this fund offers grants for maintenance, equipment, and capital projects. Funding tiers include up to €40,000 for maintenance equipment, €70,000 for equipment-only projects, €200,000 for local capital projects, and €500,000 for regional capital projects. Registration for the new SPRAOI management system opens on 28 September 2026, with applications opening on 19 October 2026.