Find Sports & Community Grants in Northern Ireland

Funding is available from Council to local sports clubs or community groups towards the purchase of a automated external defibrillator (AED) and associated security casing where applicable. Applicants may apply for up to a maximum of £1,500, 100% funded. Download Guidance Notes Information about funding amounts, eligibility, exclusions and scoring criteria can be found in the Defibrillator Grants Application Guidance Notes (pdf document). Please ensure you have read and understand the Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council Grants and Funding Policy prior to submitting an application. Important Dates Call Number Opens Closes Council Approval/notification of outcome 1 1 April 26 31 May 26 July 26 2 1 June 26 31 July 26 September 26 3 1 August 26 31 October 26 December 26 4 1 November 26 31 December 26 February 27 5 (Subject to available budget) 1 January 27 28 February 27 April 27 Grant Information Sessions Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council deliver grants and funding information sessions in April, July and October to offer guidance and support to those looking to submit an application. Details of the next upcoming workshops and how to book. Contact Us For help with your application or the online portal, contact the Funding Unit via E. fundingunit@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk or T. 0300 123 4568. Information about funding amounts, eligibility, exclusions and scoring criteria can be found in the Defibrillator Grants Application Guidance Notes (pdf document). Please ensure you have read and understand the Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council Grants and Funding Policy prior to submitting an application. Council Approval/notification of outcome Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council deliver grants and funding information sessions in April, July and October to offer guidance and support to those looking to submit an application. Details of the next upcoming workshops and how to book.

Funding is available to support sports clubs to attend high level competitions, deliver coach education programmes or purchase specialised equipment to improve facilities. Funding is available in the following three areas Education and Competition (up to £1,500) Specialist equipment with a lifespan exceeding 5 years (up to £7,500) Facility improvement: for applicants that wish to improve performance and increase participation levels or capacity through minor improvements to facilities (up to £10,000) Please note that Sports must be affiliated to a recognised governing body with the Home Countries. Visit Sport NI for more information. Download Guidance Notes Information about funding amounts, eligibility, exclusions and scoring criteria can be found in the Grants for Clubs Application Guidance Notes (pdf document). Please ensure you have read and understand the Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council Grants and Funding Policy prior to submitting an application. Important Dates Call Number Opens Closes Council Approval/notification of outcome 1 1 April 26 31 May 26 July 26 2 1 June 26 31 July 26 September 26 3 1 August 26 31 October 26 December 26 4 1 November 26 31 December 26 February 27 5 (Subject to available budget) 1 January 27 28 February 27 April 27 Grant Information Sessions Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council deliver grants and funding information sessions in April, July and October to offer guidance and support to those looking to submit an application. Details of the next upcoming workshops and how to book. Contact Us For help with your application or the online portal, contact the Funding Unit via E. fundingunit@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk or T. 0300 123 4568. Information about funding amounts, eligibility, exclusions and scoring criteria can be found in the Grants for Clubs Application Guidance Notes (pdf document).

Funding for sport and leisure events is available for governing bodies and sports clubs for events that can both promote and enhance sport and it's development within the Borough, as well as bringing real economic benefits and raising the profile of Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough and/or facilities. Council can offer funding of up to 50%* for events at a local, national or international level taking place within in Borough. *Maximum amounts applied. Applications must be completed at least 6 months prior to the event, to allow for full Council approval and funding will not be granted for events that have already taken place. Please note that Sports must be affiliated to a recognised governing body with the Home Countries. Visit Sport NI for more information. Download Guidance Notes Information about funding amounts, eligibility, exclusions and scoring criteria can be found in the Sport and Leisure Event Grants Application Guidance Notes Please ensure you have read and understand the Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council Grants and Funding Policy prior to submitting an application. Important Dates Call Number Opens Closes Council Approval/notification of outcome 1 1 April 26 31 May 26 July 26 2 1 June 26 31 July 26 September 26 3 1 August 26 31 October 26 December 26 4 1 November 26 31 December 26 February 27 5 (Subject to available budget) 1 January 27 28 February 27 April 27 Grant Information Sessions Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council deliver grants and funding information sessions in April, July and October to offer guidance and support to those looking to submit an application. Details of the next upcoming workshops and how to book. Contact Us For help with your application or the online portal, contact the Funding Unit via E. fundingunit@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk or T. 0300 123 4568. Information about funding amounts, eligibility, exclusions and scoring criteria can be found in the Sport and Leisure Event Grants Application Guidance Notes Please ensure you have read and understand the Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council Grants and Funding Policy prior to submitting an application. Council Approval/notification of outcome 1 Leisure Grant Aid Programme 2026-27 CATEGORY: Sports Event Grant Information for Applicants Sports Event Grant Guidance Notes 2026-27 Version Number Author Purpose/Change Date 1.0 Leisure Update guidance notes 16 March 2026 Contents 2 1.0 Introduction 1.1. Purpose of Grant Programme/Overview of fund 1.2. General Principles 1.3. Who can apply? 1.4. What can be funded? 1.5. What cannot be funded? 1.6. Exclusions 2.0 How to answer the questions 2.1 Information about your organisation 2.2 Project proposal 2.3 Project delivery 3.0 How we assess and score your application 3.1 Eligibility assessment 3.2 Assessment and scoring 3.3 What happens if an application is successful? 3.4 Monitoring and reporting 3.5 Marketing and promotion 3.6 Breach of Letter of Offer and Claw-Back arrangements 3.7 What happens if an application is ineligible/unsuccessful? 3.8 Appeals procedure 3.9 Fraud and Corruption 4.0 Application process Appendix 1 General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) 3 1.0 Introduction The Sports Events Grant category is open to applications from Governi

Rolling community grant of up to £1,000 for insurance, programme costs, volunteer expenses and small equipment. 2026/27 calls include 6 November 2026. Constituted community and voluntary groups in the Borough.

The aim of the Cultural Grant Aid and Bursary programme is to provide support to constituted groups and individuals based in the Borough to participate in, develop and promote Cultural activities and projects. Funding will be available for projects that develop artistic talent and knowledge, showcase the arts and promote participation and inclusion, celebrate shared heritage, and contribute to the understanding of minority languages and cultural diversity. Download Guidance Notes Information about funding amounts, eligibility, exclusions and scoring criteria can be found in the Cultural Grant Aid Programme 2026-27 Application Guidance Notes (pdf document). Please ensure you have read and understand the Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council Grants and Funding Policy prior to submitting an application. Timelines This is a rolling grant process open throughout the year from April 1. Funding will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis until the grant budget is exhausted. All applications must be submitted at least three months before funding is required. The Application Process can take up to 12 weeks from date of submission. Grant Information Sessions Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council deliver grants and funding workshops in April, July and October to offer guidance and support to those looking to submit an application. Details of the next upcoming workshops and how to book. Contact Us For help with your application or the online portal, contact the Funding Unit via E. fundingunit@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk or T. 0300 123 4568. Information about funding amounts, eligibility, exclusions and scoring criteria can be found in the Cultural Grant Aid Programme 2026-27 Application Guidance Notes (pdf document). Please ensure you have read and understand the Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council Grants and Funding Policy prior to submitting an application. This is a rolling grant process open throughout the year from April 1. Funding will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis until the grant budget is exhausted. All applications must be submitted at least three months before funding is required. The Application Process can take up to 12 weeks from date of submission. 1 Cultural Grant Aid and Bursary Programme 2026-27 CATEGORY: Cultural Grant Aid Programme Information for Applicants Cultural Grant Aid and Bursary Programme Guidance Notes 2026-27 Version Number Author Purpose/Change Date 1.1 Culture, Tourism and Events Grant Guidance Document 1 July 2026 2 Contents 1.0 Introduction 1.1. Purpose of Grant Programme/Overview of fund 1.2. General Principles 1.3. Who can apply? 1.4. What can be funded? 1.5. What cannot be funded? 2.0 How to answer the questions 3.0 How we assess and score your application 3.1 Eligibility assessment 3.2 Assessment and scoring 3.3 What happens of an application is successful? 3.4 Monitoring and reporting 3.5 Marketing and promotion 3.6 Breach of Letter of Offer and Claw-Back arrangements 3.7 What happens if an application is ineligible/unsuccessful? 3.8 Appeals procedure 3.9 Fraud and Corruption 4.0 Application process Appendix 1 General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) 3 1.0 Introduction The aim of the Cultural Grant Aid and Bursary program

Community Cashback Grant Help your local community grow and apply for a SPAR Community Cashback grant today. Funding is available for community groups and clubs, with funding available for both new and ongoing projects. The application process is quick and straightforward, simply complete the form below and tell us about the exceptional contribution the organisation makes in your neighbourhood. Applications close on 13th May 2026. Full Details: https://www.spar-ni.co.uk/community/community-cashback-grant/

Rolling pan-NI Community Relations / Cultural Diversity grants of up to £10,000 (typical awards £2,000–£5,000) for constituted community and voluntary groups. Projects must have a clear good relations purpose addressing sectarianism and/or racism. The 2026/27 scheme closes 15 January 2027; activity must be complete by 31 March 2027. Apply via the Community Relations Council.

Pan-NI small grants / match-funding for inclusive sport and physical activity. Sport NI pledges 65% of a Crowdfunder campaign up to £5,000. Open to CASC-registered clubs, sports clubs, community groups and registered charities. Phase 3 activity must complete by 31 March 2027.

Small grants of £500–£5,000 for constituted community, voluntary and arts organisations in Northern Ireland to increase participation and access to the arts. Funded by the Department for Communities. Apply online via Arts Council NI; confirm the current call dates in the programme guidance.

Grants typically £1,000–£3,000 (larger or smaller amounts considered) for charities, community groups and grassroots organisations in Northern Ireland supporting children and young people up to 18 affected by poverty, illness, neglect or additional needs. Apply via Cool FM / Downtown Cash for Kids. Local boards meet several times a year.

Kingspan Kickstart Sports Fund Amateur athletes and sports clubs across Ireland are encouraged to apply for the Kingspan Kickstart Sports Fund, designed to support aspiring athletes in achieving their goals. With a proud history of fostering sports development through partnerships like RC Toulon, Uruguay Rugby and Cavan GAA, Kingspan is committed to providing a platform for grassroots athletes, local sports clubs, and community facilities. The fund runs quarterly, with selections taking place at the end of Q1 and Q2, offering financial assistance for essential needs such as equipment, training, and other resources. Who Can Apply? The Kingspan Kickstart Sports Fund is open to individuals and organisations across the Island of Ireland, including both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. We welcome applications from all communities, aiming to support grassroots sports, emerging talent, & impactful sporting initiatives that align with our values throughout Ireland. The financial support is flexible and intended to cover essential needs such as: Training equipment and performance gear. Coaching, nutrition, or sports science support. Travel and accommodation expenses for competitions. Facility improvements or necessary resources for clubs. Individuals: Funding typically starts from €1,000 Organisations/Clubs: Funding typically starts from €2,500 Note: Higher amounts may be awarded at our discretion for applicants who can demonstrate significant brand coverage opportunities or exceptional partnership value Full Details: Kickstart Sports Fund 2026 | Kingspan Group

Rolling pan-NI grants of £300 to £20,000 for projects lasting up to two years that bring people together and improve communities. Open to constituted community groups, registered charities and CICs. Decision typically within 12 weeks.

Rolling grants of £10,000–£250,000 for not-for-profit heritage projects in Northern Ireland, including community heritage, places, nature and collections. No deadline; optional project enquiry before a full application. Apply via The National Lottery Heritage Fund. Confirm eligibility on the official guidance.

Discretionary pan-NI Community Safety funding for constituted groups addressing safety issues on Housing Executive estates. Awards follow Building Safer Communities Together 2025–2030: building community confidence, local solutions, tackling anti-social behaviour, crime and fear of crime. Capital/building works are ineligible. Apply via the Community Safety Funding form.

People-to-people grants of up to €100,000 (about £86,000) for community and voluntary groups in Northern Ireland and the border region. Supports cross-community and cross-border projects under PEACEPLUS themes 1 and 6. Managed by SEUPB and delivered by Pobal, with support from Co-operation Ireland, Rural Action and East Border Region. Match-funding in NI is from the Department for Communities. Funding runs until 2027 with multiple application rounds; the call reopens later in 2026. Confirm dates and apply via the PEACEPLUS portal.

Larger pan-NI People and Communities programme (published as Strengthening Communities) for community-led projects tackling poverty, disadvantage and discrimination. Grants from £20,001 to £500,000. Open to applications; decision in around 16 weeks.

Small Eco Awards Project location: Scotland, Northern Ireland, Wales Amount: £300 to £20,000 A decision in: 12 weeks The climate and nature emergency affects us all. But local action can make a real difference. We want to fund projects that have environmental sustainability as their main aim. We’ll fund projects that meet at least one of our priorities: help people connect with and care for nature in their area make a positive difference to the environment help people tackle pollution in their communities You can use our funding to: start a new activity or continue an existing one (if it meets our priorities) help your organisation or community (or both) adapt to new challenges run one-off events that have a clear environmental benefit This funding is for projects based in one of the following countries: Northern Ireland Scotland Wales You cannot use the same funding to run projects in more than one country. Full Details: Small Eco Awards | The National Lottery Community Fund

Through our Solar PV Support Programme, Action Renewables fully fund the installation, maintenance and repair of solar panels for charities, schools, social enterprises and community groups based in Northern Ireland. This will help your organisation save money on electricity bills and protect it against rising electricity rates in the future. How much you can save depends on the current utility rates and the profile of building usage. Our flagship charitable programme aligns with the aim of the UK’s Pathway to Net Zero by increasing the uptake of low-carbon technology, producing low-carbon energy, and reducing the demand for fossil fuels. Installing a solar energy system on your property through the Action Renewables Solar PV Support Programme , will help your organisation save money on electricity bills and protect it against rising electricity rates in the future. How much you can save depends on the current utility rates, and the profile of building usage. As part of our charitable objectives, Action Renewables will assume all installation costs. Action Renewables will retain ownership and responsibility for maintenance and repair during the projected 20-year lifespan. More information can be found here.

Sport NI Creating Opportunities small grants for inclusive sport and physical activity across Northern Ireland, listed by the NI Sports Forum.

Rolling pan-NI grants of up to £3,000 for grassroots activity that saves or significantly improves lives. Priorities: poverty alleviation and support for women and children at risk of immediate harm.