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CFPs: Community Heritage and Biodiversity Grant Programme (Ireland and UK)

Deadline: 31-Jan-2026

Waterways Ireland invites grant applications for projects supporting its Heritage and Biodiversity Plan 2030. Open to individuals, community groups, and organisations along Ireland’s inland waterways, the scheme offers grants up to €1,500/£1,350 for initiatives that promote heritage knowledge, biodiversity monitoring, environmental improvements, and sustainable development. Applications close on 31 January 2026, with projects required to complete by 31 October 2026.

Programme Overview

The Waterways Ireland Heritage & Biodiversity Grant aims to:

  • Build accessible knowledge of waterways heritage.

  • Support community-led research and biodiversity monitoring.

  • Promote heritage restoration and environmental improvements.

  • Strengthen visitor experiences and engage diverse audiences.

  • Ensure management aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals.

  • Make project findings publicly available to benefit the wider community.

Funding Details

  • Total Fund Available: €20,000 for 2026.

  • Grant Amounts: Up to €1,500 or £1,350 per project.

  • Limit: One grant per individual or organisation.

  • Eligible Costs Include: Goods and services directly tied to heritage or biodiversity project delivery.

  • Ineligible Costs:

    • Benefits to individuals rather than communities.

    • School staff costs or teaching time.

    • General equipment or tools unrelated to the project.

    • Administration fees, insurance, membership fees, utilities, rent, maintenance, or catering.

Who Can Apply?

Eligible applicants include:

  • Individuals, community groups, and organisations.

  • Applicants located along Waterways Ireland’s remit, including:

    • Lower Bann

    • Grand Canal & Royal Canal

    • Barrow Navigation

    • Shannon Navigation & Shannon Erne Waterway

    • Erne System

    • Ulster Canal (Upper Lough Erne to Clones)

How to Apply

  1. Prepare Proposal: Include a clear description of the project, objectives, and alignment with Heritage & Biodiversity Plan 2030.

  2. Supporting Documents: Provide quotations, permissions, photographs, maps, and letters of support as necessary.

  3. Submit Application: Deadline is Friday, 31 January 2026.

  4. Information Webinar: Join the MS Teams session on 21 January 2026 at 7 PM. Mobile users may need to download the Teams app.

  5. Project Completion: All funded projects must be completed by 31 October 2026.

Assessment Criteria

Applications are evaluated based on:

  • Alignment with the Heritage & Biodiversity Plan 2030.

  • Local community impact.

  • Innovation and creativity in project approach.

  • Feasibility within the timeframe and budget.

Appeals Process

Applicants may request a formal appeal review if a decision is contested. A successful appeal does not guarantee additional funding but ensures the process remains transparent and accountable.

Tips for Applicants

  • Focus strictly on heritage or biodiversity-related activities.

  • Include all required supporting documentation for clarity.

  • Ensure the project can realistically be completed before 31 October 2026.

  • Highlight community benefit and alignment with sustainable development goals.

FAQ

  1. Who can apply? Individuals, community groups, and organisations within Waterways Ireland’s remit.

  2. What is the maximum grant? €1,500 or £1,350 per project.

  3. Can funding cover staff salaries or administrative costs? No, these costs are ineligible.

  4. What is the application deadline? 31 January 2026.

  5. When must projects be completed? By 31 October 2026.

  6. Are international or travel costs eligible? Only if directly tied to heritage/biodiversity project objectives and local impact.

  7. Is there guidance available? Yes, an online webinar will be held on 21 January 2026.

Conclusion

The Waterways Ireland Heritage & Biodiversity Grant 2026 offers targeted support for community-led projects that protect, restore, and promote Ireland’s inland waterways heritage and biodiversity. By applying, individuals and organisations can contribute to sustainable development, engage local communities, and enhance public access to Ireland’s rich cultural and natural heritage.

For more information, visit Waterways Ireland.