Deadline: 30-Apr-2026
The 2026 LGBTIQ+ Community Services Funding offers €1.5 million to support community services, inclusion initiatives, and visibility projects for LGBTIQ+ people across Ireland. Open from 23 March to 30 April 2026, the funding supports national, regional, and local organisations aligned with the National LGBTIQ+ Inclusion Strategy II 2024–2028. Two streams are available: Scheme A for service delivery and programme development, and Scheme B for smaller visibility and inclusion projects.
What is the LGBTIQ+ Community Services Funding?
The LGBTIQ+ Community Services Funding is a government initiative led by the Department of Children, Disability and Equality to:
- Promote inclusion and protect the rights of LGBTIQ+ individuals
- Improve quality of life, wellbeing, and social participation
- Enhance visibility and representation in cultural, economic, and political spheres
- Foster a safe, fair, and inclusive society across Ireland
The fund contributes directly to implementing the National LGBTIQ+ Inclusion Strategy II 2024–2028, reinforcing government support for LGBTIQ+ communities.
Grant Overview
- Total Funding Available: €1.5 million
- Application Period: 23 March – 30 April 2026
- Eligible Organisations:
- Existing LGBTIQ+ non-governmental organisations (NGOs)
- Community organisations working directly with LGBTIQ+ individuals
- Ineligible Applicants: Individuals and local authorities
- Funding Streams:
- Scheme A: Support for service delivery, programme maintenance, and new initiative development
- Scheme B: Smaller grants targeting visibility and inclusion, particularly for adult communities
Who is Eligible?
Eligible organisations must:
- Be formally registered and operational within Ireland
- Work directly with LGBTIQ+ communities
- Demonstrate capacity to manage funding and deliver proposed activities
Individuals, local authorities, and unregistered groups are not eligible to apply.
What Activities Are Funded?
Projects should align with the National LGBTIQ+ Inclusion Strategy II and may include:
- Direct support services for LGBTIQ+ individuals
- Development and expansion of community programmes
- Initiatives that enhance inclusion in social, cultural, economic, and political life
- Visibility campaigns and outreach projects targeting adult communities
- Activities that strengthen participation and community engagement
How the Funding Works
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
- Ensure your organisation is registered and works directly with LGBTIQ+ individuals
- Verify that you are not an individual applicant or local authority
Step 2: Choose a Funding Stream
- Scheme A: For maintaining or developing services and programmes
- Scheme B: For smaller visibility and inclusion projects
Step 3: Prepare Your Proposal
- Describe the project objectives, expected outcomes, and target beneficiaries
- Demonstrate alignment with the National LGBTIQ+ Inclusion Strategy II 2024–2028
- Provide evidence of organisational experience and capacity
- Include a budget plan showing financial management and value for money
Step 4: Submit Application
- Applications must be submitted electronically via the official portal
- Ensure deadlines are strictly met (by 30 April 2026)
Step 5: Assessment
Applications are evaluated based on:
- Alignment with strategic priorities
- Strength, relevance, and feasibility of activities
- Organisational experience and capacity to deliver
- Financial management and cost-effectiveness
Step 6: Funding Decision
- Approved organisations will be notified following review
- Funds are distributed according to the selected stream and project scope
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting applications past the 30 April 2026 deadline
- Applying as an individual or local authority
- Proposing projects not aligned with the National LGBTIQ+ Inclusion Strategy II
- Failing to provide clear evidence of organisational capacity or experience
- Omitting detailed budget and value-for-money justification
FAQs
1. Who can apply for this funding?
Registered LGBTIQ+ NGOs and community organisations working directly with LGBTIQ+ individuals in Ireland.
2. What is the total funding available?
€1.5 million is available for distribution across eligible projects.
3. What are the application dates?
Applications are open from 23 March to 30 April 2026.
4. What funding streams exist?
- Scheme A: Service delivery and programme development
- Scheme B: Smaller visibility and inclusion initiatives for adult communities
5. Can individuals or local authorities apply?
No. Only registered organisations are eligible.
6. How will applications be assessed?
Applications are evaluated on strategic alignment, project relevance, organisational capacity, and financial management.
7. What types of projects are prioritised?
Projects enhancing inclusion, improving wellbeing, increasing participation, promoting visibility, and supporting safe and fair communities for LGBTIQ+ people.
Conclusion
The 2026 LGBTIQ+ Community Services Funding Call is a significant opportunity for Irish organisations to advance inclusion, wellbeing, and visibility for LGBTIQ+ communities. With €1.5 million available and two funding streams, the initiative empowers organisations to deliver impactful programmes aligned with the National LGBTIQ+ Inclusion Strategy II 2024–2028, ensuring that LGBTIQ+ individuals across Ireland can thrive and participate fully in society.
For more information, visit Department of Children, Disability and Equality.