Community Services Programme Open Call for Applications 2026
Minister of State with responsibility for Community Development and Charities, Jerry Buttimer TD has announced an Open Call for Applications under the Community Services Programme (CSP). The CSP Programme currently supports over 420 community-based organisations.
The overarching vision of the CSP Programme is to support community organisations that operate to deliver a social purpose, to offer services that meet identified needs and provide employment locally contributing to sustainable, inclusive and empowered communities.
Pobal will provide support to organisations interested in making a preliminary application to join the CSP Programme from today until the closing date for applications on 8 May 2026.
Following submission of a preliminary application that meets all eligible criteria, shortlisted applicants will then be invited to submit a full application to Pobal by 28 August 2026.
Information Events will be held for successful applicants applying for the programme on the week beginning 27 July 2026. This will ensure those applying to the CSP Programme are fully equipped with the information that they need to apply for this funding.
Information Session for Prospective Applicants
Pobal, on behalf of the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, invites you to attend an Information Session for prospective applicants.
You can choose one of the following sessions:
Session 1:
CSP Open Call 2026 Information Session 1
Wednesday 8 April 2026
Online, via MS Teams
10am – 11:30am
Register here: Morning Information Session
Session 2:
CSP Open Call 2026 Information Session 2
Wednesday 8 April 2026
7pm – 8:30pm
Online via MS Teams
Register here: Evening Information Session
We strongly encourage you to attend one of these sessions if you are interested in applying for funding. They will give you the information you need to prepare your application.
Please click on the relevant form title to view or download: Preliminary Application Form, Guidelines and a Frequently Asked Questions
An Irish version of the application from will be available from 10 April.
Closing Date for applications: 5pm, Friday 8 May 2026.
Late applications will not be accepted.
Programme Manual
The CSP Programme Manual (version 6) brings everything you need to comply with the programme into one easy-to-use document, including: the programme’s Rules and Regulations, the Key Financial Requirements, Audit Guidance and Communication and Publicity Guidance.
Information Session for Successful Applicants
Information Events will be held for successful applicants applying for the programme on the week beginning 27 July 2026. This will ensure those applying to the CSP Programme are fully equipped with the information that they need to apply for this funding.
Details are available on the Pobal CSP webpage and on the Department's website and social media channels.