Ireland’s arts and culture sector is set to receive a major funding boost as the new Arts Capital Investment Fund prepares to open for applications. The €6 million pilot scheme will help not-for-profit organisations, community groups and cultural facilities improve buildings, purchase equipment and widen public access to the arts.
Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport Patrick O’Donovan TD announced the initiative at the Mermaid Arts Centre in Bray alongside Minister of State Noel Grealish TD. Applications open on 1 October 2026 and will remain available for 11 weeks, closing on 18 December 2026.
Arts Capital Investment Fund targets facilities and participation
The Arts Capital Investment Fund fulfils a Programme for Government commitment to explore dedicated capital support for arts and culture facilities. Funding can be used for refurbishment, equipment, climate action improvements, health and safety measures, and works that improve universal access.
The scheme also recognises the contribution of community and voluntary groups, providing support for equipment designed to increase participation in artistic and cultural activities across Ireland.
Three funding categories available
- Category 1: Equipment for arts and culture organisations or multi-use centres providing, or developing, dedicated cultural facilities.
- Category 2: Construction and refurbishment works for arts organisations or multi-use centres, with essential equipment also eligible where required.
- Category 3: Equipment for community and voluntary groups seeking to increase participation in the arts.
Applicants may apply under one category only. Full eligibility requirements, application guidance and supporting information will be published on gov.ie by the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport.
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How much funding can arts organisations receive?
Grant limits and funding rates vary according to the category and the ownership of the facility:
- Category 1 equipment grants of up to €100,000, generally covering 95% of eligible costs and 70% for local-authority-owned facilities.
- Category 2 construction grants of up to €200,000, with a 95% rate generally available and 70% for local-authority-owned facilities.
- Category 3 equipment grants of up to €15,000 at a 95% grant funding rate.
The scheme is intended for not-for-profit applicants and is designed to strengthen cultural infrastructure while making arts participation more accessible to people in communities throughout the country.
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Government says investment will widen access
Minister O’Donovan said the fund is intended to support more than buildings and equipment by helping communities create opportunities for creativity. He described the pilot as an important step towards improving local cultural facilities and increasing participation regardless of location or background.
Minister Grealish said the initiative would help strengthen cultural organisations and support the principle that the arts should be accessible to everyone.
What applicants should do next
- Review the official eligibility criteria when published on gov.ie.
- Choose the single funding category most relevant to the proposed project.
- Prepare details of the works, equipment, costs and expected community benefit.
- Submit the application before the 18 December 2026 deadline.
The Arts Capital Investment Fund gives Ireland’s cultural organisations and community groups an opportunity to improve the places and resources where creative activity takes place. Eligible applicants should check the Department’s guidance as soon as applications open and prepare submissions well before the deadline.
Article/Image Courtesy: gov.ie
