Deadline: 17-Apr-2026
Wicklow County Council’s Creative Community Activation Fund supports collaborative, community-focused creative projects in the Creative Places Baltinglass area for 2026–2027. Grants of €2,000–€5,000 are available to projects that engage local communities, involve paid creative personnel, and encourage meaningful collaboration between artists and groups.
Overview of the Fund
The Creative Community Activation Fund is designed to strengthen connections between artists and communities in the Creative Places Baltinglass area. It supports projects that are collaborative, socially engaged, and place-based, with a focus on community participation. Eligible activities may include:
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Creative residencies
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Event series
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Public realm initiatives
Projects should foster meaningful collaboration between artists and local groups, enhancing cultural participation and community engagement.
Fund Amount and Priorities
A total of €20,000 is available for the 2026–2027 period. Individual grants range from €2,000 to €5,000. Projects that involve longer-term engagement, such as multi-week residencies or initiatives activating community spaces over time, may be prioritised for higher funding amounts. All projects must:
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Take place within the Creative Places Baltinglass area
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Include paid creative personnel as part of project delivery
Who is Eligible?
Eligible lead applicants include:
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Community groups and local organisations
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Artists or creative practitioners collaborating with community partners
The lead applicant is responsible for project submission and coordination. Projects must clearly outline responsibilities, roles, and engagement strategies with community participants.
Match Funding Requirement
Applicants are required to provide 10% match funding as part of their project budget. This can be provided as:
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Cash contribution
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In-kind support
The match funding must be clearly detailed in the submitted budget and reflect a genuine contribution to the project.
How to Apply
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Identify Lead Applicant – Ensure the lead applicant is eligible and responsible for project submission.
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Define Project Scope – Outline collaborative activities, target community groups, and engagement strategies.
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Prepare Budget – Include project costs, match funding (cash or in-kind), and paid creative personnel.
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Submit Application – Complete the official application form with all supporting documents.
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Project Delivery – Funded projects must take place within the Creative Places Baltinglass area during 2026–2027.
Tips for a Successful Application
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Focus on meaningful community engagement and collaboration.
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Highlight long-term impact and sustained activities.
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Include clear roles for paid creative personnel.
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Provide detailed, transparent budget and match funding information.
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Demonstrate how the project will activate community spaces or public areas.
FAQs
1. What types of projects are eligible?
Collaborative, community-focused creative projects, including residencies, events, and public realm initiatives.
2. Where must projects take place?
All projects must occur within the Creative Places Baltinglass area.
3. How much funding can I apply for?
Grants range from €2,000 to €5,000 per project, depending on scope and duration.
4. Who can be a lead applicant?
Community groups, schools, local organisations, or artists working in collaboration with community partners.
5. Is match funding required?
Yes, applicants must provide 10% of the project budget as cash or in-kind contribution.
6. Can projects involve volunteers instead of paid creative personnel?
No, all funded projects must include paid creative personnel for project delivery.
7. Are multi-year projects eligible?
Projects must be delivered within 2026–2027. Longer-term engagement within this period is prioritised.
Conclusion
The Creative Community Activation Fund provides opportunities for artists, schools, and community groups to deliver meaningful creative projects that strengthen community connections in the Creative Places Baltinglass area. By supporting collaboration, engagement, and paid creative roles, the fund ensures vibrant, socially engaged arts initiatives that leave lasting local impact.
For more information, visit Wicklow County Council.









































