Purpose of the CAIRDE Grant Scheme
As part of our commitment to supporting communities, local development and regeneration, Galway City Council has established the Community Action, Inclusion, Regeneration, Development & Environment (CAIRDE) Grant Scheme. This Scheme offers financial support to community, sporting and voluntary groups, social enterprises and business associations for projects and initiatives that contribute to the development of their communities and improve the quality-of-life experience in their areas.
The funding available is allocated from Galway City Council’s Annual Budget 2025, as adopted by the Elected Members. It is available to support those groups wishing to undertake specific projects under the relevant categories / streams of the Scheme. The Scheme will also enable local regeneration and enhancement works and in limited cases, projects may be delivered directly by Galway City Council, where appropriate.
Who can apply?
Any community, voluntary, sporting, social enterprise or business association group operating in Galway City may apply. Public sector and commercial for-profit organisations are not eligible to make an application. Groups are encouraged to register with the Galway City Public Participation Network (PPN), which is Galway City Community Network (GCCN) and be actively involved in the PPN. Applicants are advised to engage with the Council to ensure proposed projects align with work programmes and policies.
Grant Support Schemes 2025
The following grant supports are included in the CAIRDE Grant Scheme 2025:
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Support Scheme for Community Action (Min Grant €1,000 - Max €25,000)
The Community Action funding stream is designed to support projects and initiatives that enhance the social, cultural, and physical well-being of local communities. This funding is intended to empower local residents and organisations to take action on issues that matter most to them, fostering a sense of belonging and shared responsibility.
Initiatives may include, but are not limited to, community development projects that promote local engagement, capacity building and improving community facilities.
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Support Scheme for Inclusion (Min Grant €5,000 - Max €50,000)
The Inclusion funding stream is designed to support projects that promote equality, accessibility and social inclusion for all members of the community, particularly those who may face barriers to full participation in society. This stream aims to fund initiatives that foster a more inclusive environment for marginalized or underrepresented groups, ensuring that every individual has equal opportunities to engage in community life.
Projects that may be considered for funding include, but are not limited to, age-friendly initiatives, the promotion of Irish and minority languages, cultural projects and programmes or supports to increase accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
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Support Scheme for Regeneration (Min Grant €5,000 - Max €25,000)
The Regeneration funding stream is aimed at supporting projects that contribute to the revitalisation and sustainable development of disadvantaged areas within Galway City. The goal is to enhance the physical, economic, and social well-being of communities that face challenges such as socio-economic deprivation, lack of infrastructure, or limited access to essential services.
Eligible initiatives may include, but are not limited to, urban renewal projects, local enhancement and improvement to public spaces, the creation of community hubs, and development of facilities in disadvantaged areas.
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Support Scheme for Development (Min Grant €5,000 - Max €50,000)
The Development funding stream will support projects that promote local economic growth, infrastructure development and enhanced community and sports facilities. This funding stream seeks to encourage initiatives that contribute to the long-term development of Galway City by improving public amenities, boosting local economies, and enhancing the overall quality of life for residents.
Eligible projects could include, but are not limited to, upgrades to sports facilities and running of sporting events, the development of tourism and enterprise infrastructure and supports, and the creation of new public spaces or recreational areas that benefit both locals and visitors.
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Support Scheme for Environment (Min Grant €5,000 - Max €25,000)
The Environment funding stream is designed to support projects that contribute to the protection, enhancement and sustainable management of Galway City’s natural environment. This stream aims to fund initiatives that address environmental challenges, promote climate action, and foster greater awareness of biodiversity, heritage, and the city’s green spaces and cemeteries.
Eligible projects may include, but are not limited to, climate action initiatives that reduce carbon emissions, biodiversity conservation projects, heritage conservation, and the creation or improvement of local amenities that enhance environmental sustainability.
How to apply
Applications for funding are required to be made via an online application system: https://submit.link/3wq
Online applications system opens from Monday 31st March and closes 17th April 2025 at 4 pm.
Applicants will not be informed of the outcome of their grant application until June 2025. We kindly request that you refrain from contacting this department until you have received notification regarding the outcome.
Please note: All projects must be completed by 31st October 2025 and all approved funding claimed by the 28th November 2025.
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For more information, please refer to the attached Scheme Guidelines:
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