Call for Proposals: Conservation Grants Programme (Ireland)

The Irish Georgian Society (IGS) Conservation Grants Programme offers funding to support the preservation of architecturally significant buildings and structures across Ireland. In 2026, a total of €44,000 is available, with grants prioritizing protected, listed, or nationally important buildings. Applications proceed in a three-phase process, starting with expressions of interest due by 12 PM on 27 February 2026.

Overview of the Programme

The IGS Conservation Grants Programme aims to support the conservation of older, fragile, and historically significant buildings across Ireland. The programme:

• Prioritizes protected and listed structures with architectural merit

• Encourages projects on nationally and internationally significant buildings

• Provides limited consideration to unprotected structures that have been overlooked by local authorities or the National Inventory of Architectural Heritage (NIAH)

Grant Funding Available in 2026

• Total Funding: €44,000

• Niall Smith Conservation Grants Fund & IGS London: €30,000 for eligible structures of all periods across Ireland

• Homan Potterton Conservation Grants Fund: €10,000 for Georgian buildings or structures in Meath and Westmeath

• IGS Cork Chapter Fund: €4,000 for projects in Cork, Kerry, Tipperary, and Waterford

Eligible Applicants

• Individuals or groups planning or undertaking conservation projects on:

  • Protected structures

  • Listed buildings

  • Recorded monuments

• Unprotected structures may be considered if they demonstrate clear architectural and historical value and have been overlooked by authorities

Eligible Projects

• Conservation, restoration, or repair of historically or architecturally significant buildings

• Projects must demonstrate clear heritage value and adhere to recognized conservation principles

• Priority is given to older, fragile, and regionally or nationally significant structures

Application Process

The programme follows a three-phase application process:

1. Expressions of Interest (EOI)

   • No conservation report required initially

   • Submit by 12 PM on Friday 27 February 2026

   • Early March: Applicants notified of initial outcomes

2. Shortlisted Projects – Additional Details

   • Selected EOIs will be asked to provide further information

   • Submission deadline: Wednesday 25 March 2026

3. Final Review and Grant Allocation

   • Grants awarded based on project merit, significance, and alignment with programme priorities

   • Final allocations determined in mid-April 2026

How to Apply

1. Determine project eligibility and ensure it aligns with conservation priorities.

2. Prepare an expression of interest with project summary and key details.

3. Submit EOI by the stated deadline.

4. Provide additional information if shortlisted, including architectural or historical reports where requested.

5. Await final grant decision and funding allocation notification.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Submitting EOIs past the 12 PM deadline on 27 February 2026

• Applying for unprotected structures without demonstrating overlooked architectural or historical value

• Failing to follow guidance on regional or period-specific grant criteria

• Providing incomplete or insufficient project details during the additional information phase

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Who can apply for the grants? Individuals or groups undertaking conservation projects on protected, listed, or architecturally significant structures.
2. Can unprotected buildings receive funding? Yes, but only if they are historically significant and overlooked by local authorities or NIAH.
3. How much funding is available in 2026? A total of €44,000 across three specific funds.
4. What is the application process? A three-phase process: Expression of Interest, additional details for shortlisted projects, and final review for grant allocation.
5. What are the key deadlines? EOIs due 27 February 2026; additional details by 25 March 2026; final grant decisions in mid-April 2026.
6. Are there regional restrictions for certain grants? Yes, the Homan Potterton Fund targets Meath and Westmeath; the IGS Cork Chapter supports Cork, Kerry, Tipperary, and Waterford.
7. Is a conservation report required for the initial application? No, it is only requested for shortlisted projects.

Conclusion

The IGS Conservation Grants Programme provides vital support for the preservation of Ireland’s architectural heritage. By funding projects that restore and conserve significant structures, the programme strengthens cultural heritage, ensures long-term protection of historic buildings, and encourages responsible stewardship of Ireland’s built environment.