Ireland’s Community Sport Facilities Fund 2026 will introduce higher grant limits, simpler eligibility rules and a new funding tier for large shared facilities. The Department of Culture, Communications and Sport has confirmed that applications will open online from 9am on 19 October 2026 until 5pm on 26 February 2027.
The announcement is significant for voluntary clubs, community organisations, local authorities and National Governing Bodies (NGBs) seeking support for sports infrastructure, equipment and accessibility improvements.
Community Sport Facilities Fund 2026: What is changing?
The new round includes a revised three-tier structure designed to support projects of different sizes. A new grant management platform, SPRAOI, went live on 28 September 2026. Around 8,000 organisations previously registered through the OSCAR system have been transferred, although applicants are encouraged to check their details.
- Local projects: maximum grant increased from €200,000 to €250,000.
- Regional Tier 1: maximum grant increased from €500,000 to €550,000.
- Regional Tier 2: new pilot category offering up to €750,000, with funding capped at 70% of eligible costs.
New support for shared multi-sport facilities
Regional Tier 2 is aimed at larger projects that sit between traditional Community Sport Facilities Fund applications and the Large-Scale Sport Infrastructure Fund. Applications must come from local authorities or NGBs and should focus on shared facilities serving at least two distinct sports.
Eligible projects will need clear evidence of the required 30% match funding. Facilities must also be operated or managed by an NGB or local authority. The new tier is intended to encourage collaboration and improve access to infrastructure across communities.
Who can apply and what can be funded?
Eligible applicants include voluntary and not-for-profit sports clubs, community groups, NGBs and local authorities. Schools, Education and Training Boards and third-level colleges can apply jointly with sports clubs or other eligible organisations.
Potential projects include:
- Natural or artificial pitches, tracks and courts
- Energy-efficient floodlighting and energy-saving upgrades
- Changing rooms, showers, toilets, sports halls and gyms
- Fencing, ball-stop netting, goalposts and handball facilities
- Non-personal sports equipment
Projects must support participation or improve sporting performance. Equal access for women and men remains a requirement, while applicants must demonstrate a commitment to a “sport for all” approach.
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Application dates and registration guidance
Clubs that are not registered on SPRAOI should complete registration before applying. All applications must be submitted through the Department’s online system between 19 October 2026 and 26 February 2027.
The Department’s Information Guide, including terms, conditions and eligible costs, is available at gov.ie/SportsCapital. Applicants requiring assistance can contact csff2026queries@ccs.gov.ie.
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What applicants should do now
- Register or review organisational details on SPRAOI.
- Confirm land, lease or licence arrangements.
- Develop evidence of community need and shared access.
- Secure match funding, particularly for Regional Tier 2 projects.
- Review the official application guide before submissions open.
The Community Sport Facilities Fund 2026 gives Irish sports organisations a broader opportunity to improve facilities and increase participation. Early preparation will be essential, particularly for applicants seeking larger grants or forming multi-sport partnerships.
Article/Image Courtesy: gov.ie
