Deadline: 24-Oct-2025
Applications are now open for Cultural Event and Festival Grant scheme which aims to assist locally run projects that promote growth and development in the Dún Laoghaire/Rathdown County through the co-funding of culture festivals and events whilst also encouraging footfall to local areas and local business promotion.
The objectives of the grant align with key strategic frameworks, including the Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown (DLR) Corporate Plan and the DLR Tourism Strategy. Both emphasize the creation of a dynamic, competitive business environment and vibrant communities, day and night, through events that attract local and wider audiences.
Grants are offered under three categories, based on the scale and scope of the event. Small events that are locally focused may receive funding of up to €3,000 or 40% of the total cost. Medium-sized events that appeal to both local and county-wide audiences are eligible for up to €7,000 or 40% of the cost. Large events or festivals, which typically span multiple days and attract regional or national audiences, can receive up to €20,000, also capped at 40% of the event’s total cost.
Large-scale events must generate a minimum of 100 paid tourist bed nights to be considered, and applicants must submit a three-year strategic plan that includes good governance practices and detailed financial projections. Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council reserves the right to estimate tourism impact in the absence of survey data.
Grant applications will be assessed based on several key criteria. Organisers are reminded that any spending before a grant is approved is done at their own risk, and the requested funding must not exceed 40% of the event’s total budget. Events must be non-profit in nature, and preference will be given to new initiatives rather than recurring ones.
Applicants must be legally recognised community bodies, arts organisations, sports clubs, or business associations with dedicated bank accounts. Personal accounts are not permitted for grant disbursement. For funding requests above €10,000, a valid Tax Clearance Certificate is required.
Organisations working with children must submit a safeguarding statement, and any applicants using public open spaces must obtain the necessary permits and approvals. All sources of public or council-controlled funding must be clearly declared, and incomplete applications will be rejected.
It is also important to note that while the grant supports direct event expenses, it does not cover general operating costs, capital expenditures, prize money, personal subsistence, or fees such as VAT or legal costs. Funding cannot be used to support commercial or profit-driven activities.
The ACT Foundation continues to provide critical support for events that enrich communities and build stronger, more inclusive local economies. Interested applicants should prepare thorough and well-documented proposals to enhance their chances of success in this competitive grant cycle.
For more information, visit Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council.
