Deadline: 14-May-2026
The Shared Island Touring Scheme 2026 provides €30,000–€100,000 in funding to support cross-border arts touring and co-productions across the island of Ireland. Delivered by the Arts Council and Arts Council of Northern Ireland, the scheme promotes cultural collaboration between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. It supports high-quality artistic work, multi-venue touring, and long-term cultural partnerships.
What is the Shared Island Touring Scheme?
The Shared Island Touring Scheme 2026 is a cultural funding programme designed to support cross-border touring and artistic co-productions across the island of Ireland.
The scheme is part of the Shared Island Cultural Cooperation Fund, managed jointly by the Arts Council and the Arts Council of Northern Ireland.
Its goal is to:
- Strengthen cultural collaboration between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland
- Support high-quality artistic touring
- Build long-term partnerships across borders
Key Objectives of the Scheme
1. Promote High-Quality Artistic Work
Supports professional arts projects with strong creative merit and audience appeal.
2. Strengthen Cross-Border Collaboration
Encourages partnerships between artists and organisations across both jurisdictions.
3. Expand Touring Opportunities
Enables artists to present work across multiple venues on an all-island basis.
4. Support Co-Productions
Funds collaborative artistic productions involving partners from both regions.
5. Engage Diverse Audiences
Promotes inclusive cultural programming accessible to wider communities.
6. Build Long-Term Cultural Relationships
Aims to create sustainable partnerships and shared cultural identity.
Funding Details
- Minimum Grant: €30,000
- Maximum Grant: €100,000
- Project Start: 2026
- Funding Type: Touring and co-production support
Who is Eligible?
Eligible Applicants
- Professional practising artists
- Arts organisations
- Arts practitioners
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be based in either the Republic of Ireland or Northern Ireland
- Must demonstrate a strong professional track record
- Must have experience in touring or production
- Must submit only one application
Project Requirements
- Must involve at least three venues across the island
- Must demonstrate meaningful cross-border collaboration
- Must begin in 2026
What Types of Projects Are Supported?
Eligible projects include:
- Multi-venue touring productions
- Cross-border artistic collaborations
- Theatre, music, dance, visual arts, and multidisciplinary works
- Co-produced performances involving partners from both regions
Why This Scheme Matters
Strengthens Cultural Cooperation
Encourages collaboration between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.
Expands Artistic Reach
Allows artists to access wider audiences across the island.
Supports Creative Excellence
Invests in high-quality, professional artistic work.
Builds Sustainable Partnerships
Fosters long-term collaboration between arts organisations.
How to Apply
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Check Eligibility
Ensure you meet applicant and project criteria - Develop a Touring Proposal
Plan a project involving at least three venues - Build Partnerships
Collaborate with organisations across both regions - Prepare Supporting Materials
Include artistic concept, track record, and touring plan - Create a Detailed Budget
Ensure funding request is within €30,000–€100,000 - Submit Application Online
Use the official Arts Council portal - Review and Assessment
Applications are evaluated based on quality, collaboration, and feasibility
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting incomplete or late applications
- Failing to meet the minimum venue requirement
- Weak or unclear cross-border collaboration
- Exceeding funding limits
- Lack of professional track record
Tips for a Strong Application
- Clearly demonstrate artistic quality and innovation
- Highlight strong partnerships across both regions
- Provide a realistic touring schedule
- Show evidence of audience engagement
- Align your proposal with the scheme’s cross-border objectives
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. Who manages the Shared Island Touring Scheme?
It is managed by the Arts Council and the Arts Council of Northern Ireland.
2. How much funding is available?
Grants range from €30,000 to €100,000.
3. Who can apply?
Professional artists and arts organisations based in Ireland or Northern Ireland.
4. What is the minimum project requirement?
Projects must include touring across at least three venues.
5. Can I submit multiple applications?
No, only one application per applicant is allowed.
6. What types of projects are supported?
Touring productions and cross-border co-productions in various art forms.
7. What happens if my application is incomplete?
Incomplete or late applications will not be considered.
Conclusion
The Shared Island Touring Scheme 2026 is a strategic cultural funding initiative that strengthens artistic collaboration across the island of Ireland. By supporting touring and co-production, it enables artists to expand their reach, engage new audiences, and build lasting partnerships.
For more information, visit The Arts Council.