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Apply for Emigrant Support Grant Programme in Ireland

Deadline: 04-Feb-2026

The Emigrant Support Grant Programme (ESP) funds organizations that promote Irish heritage abroad and provide support to vulnerable or underrepresented members of the Irish diaspora. Grants cover projects in heritage, community care, business networking, and capital initiatives, with a Small Grants Scheme for projects requesting €30,000 or less. Eligible applicants are registered charities or not-for-profit organizations that align with the Government’s Diaspora Strategy 2020–2025.

Overview

The ESP Programme supports organizations working to:

  • Promote Irish cultural heritage among diaspora communities

  • Provide assistance to vulnerable and underrepresented members of the Irish diaspora

  • Support initiatives that align with the Government’s Diaspora Strategy 2020–2025

The program encourages projects that strengthen community engagement, cultural identity, and social support networks internationally.

Funding Categories

  1. Heritage Projects

    • Promote Irish identity abroad through sports, music, dance, and arts

    • Encourage cultural learning and preservation within diaspora communities

  2. Community Care Projects

    • Provide front-line welfare services such as advisory, counselling, information, and outreach

    • Support vulnerable or underrepresented members of the diaspora

  3. Business Network Projects

    • Facilitate Irish professional networks overseas

    • Encourage knowledge sharing, mentorship, and collaboration among diaspora professionals

  4. Capital Projects

    • Support construction, refurbishment, or purchase of assets

    • Include initiatives such as website development or large digital/software projects

Small Grants Scheme:

  • For total funding requests of €30,000 or less

  • Features a shorter application form and reduced reporting requirements

Who Can Apply?

Eligible applicants must be:

  • Registered charities, charitable bodies, or voluntary/not-for-profit organizations

  • Demonstrate alignment with ESP objectives and the Diaspora Strategy 2020–2025

  • Have appropriate governance arrangements to oversee and administer the funding

Why This Program Matters

The ESP Programme strengthens the Irish diaspora community by:

  • Supporting vulnerable or underrepresented groups abroad

  • Preserving and promoting Irish cultural heritage internationally

  • Building community connections and professional networks

  • Empowering organizations to deliver sustainable and meaningful projects

How to Apply

  1. Identify your project type and ensure alignment with ESP objectives

  2. Prepare a detailed project proposal, including objectives, activities, expected outcomes, and budget

  3. For projects ≤€30,000, consider the Small Grants Scheme for a simplified application

  4. Ensure your organization meets eligibility and governance requirements

  5. Submit your application following the ESP application guidelines

Conclusion

The Emigrant Support Grant Programme provides vital support to organizations promoting Irish heritage and community care abroad. By funding heritage, care, business, and capital initiatives, ESP enables organizations to strengthen diaspora communities, preserve cultural identity, and support those most in need internationally.

For more information, visit Government of Ireland.