Community Heritage Grant Scheme 2027 to Open in September
The Heritage Council has announced that its Community Heritage Grant Scheme 2027 will open for applications on 18 September 2026, offering funding to community groups and not-for-profit NGOs working to protect, celebrate and share Ireland’s heritage. Grants will range from €800 to €25,000.
The scheme supports a broad range of community-led heritage projects, including work to protect heritage at risk, restore biodiversity and nature, preserve traditional skills and conservation practices, and use digital tools to improve access to and storytelling about heritage. Projects promoting diversity, equity and inclusion will also be eligible for support.
Funding is intended for practical projects that deliver lasting heritage benefits, engage local communities and create public value. This could include initiatives that document or record local heritage, conserve important sites or traditions, develop new ways of sharing heritage with the public, or support community involvement in protecting Ireland’s natural and cultural heritage.
For 2027, the Heritage Council is introducing a new two-stage application process, beginning with a shorter Expression of Interest. This is intended to make the initial application more straightforward and accessible, with shortlisted projects subsequently invited to submit a full application.
The Expression of Interest stage will open on 18 September and close on 16 October 2026, with applicants expected to be notified of the outcome in November. Full applications will then be invited from shortlisted projects between November 2026 and January 2027, with funding decisions expected in spring 2027.
Full details available here.