Deadline: 03-Jun-2026
The PEACEPLUS Programme has launched its Strand 3 Call 2 with a €5 million budget to support community-based safety interventions that strengthen peace and reconciliation.
The programme targets collaborative projects across Northern Ireland and border counties of Ireland, focusing on reducing anti-social behaviour and building cohesive, resilient communities.
Overview of the Programme
The PEACEPLUS Programme is a cross-border funding initiative designed to promote peace, stability, and socio-economic development across:
- Northern Ireland
- Border counties of Ireland
This specific call falls under Strand 3: Empowering Communities, which focuses on community-level peacebuilding and safety interventions.
The programme supports projects that address local challenges, strengthen social cohesion, and foster reconciliation.
Funding Details
- Total Budget: €5 million
- Funding Type: Project-based grants
- Focus: Community safety and peacebuilding initiatives
Programme Priorities
The PEACEPLUS Programme is structured around six thematic priorities:
1. Building Peaceful and Thriving Communities
- Strengthening community relationships
- Promoting reconciliation
2. Economic Regeneration and Transformation
- Supporting local economic growth
- Enhancing regional development
3. Empowering and Investing in Young People
4. Healthy and Inclusive Communities
- Promoting wellbeing and inclusion
- Addressing social inequalities
5. Sustainable and Connected Future
- Supporting environmental sustainability
- Improving connectivity
6. Partnership and Collaboration
- Encouraging cross-sector collaboration
- Strengthening institutional partnerships
Focus of Strand 3: Empowering Communities
This call specifically targets:
- Community-based safety interventions
- Reducing anti-social behaviour
- Strengthening local peace and reconciliation
Key Objectives
- Improve community safety
- Enhance social cohesion
- Address issues affecting community harmony
- Promote long-term peacebuilding outcomes
Types of Supported Projects
Projects should:
- Implement local safety initiatives
- Address anti-social behaviour and conflict drivers
- Foster community dialogue and collaboration
- Deliver measurable improvements in peace and cohesion
Who is Eligible?
Eligible Applicants
- National, regional, and local authorities
- Development agencies
- Academic and research institutions
- Non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
- Voluntary sector organizations
- Private sector entities (including SMEs and large companies)
Key Requirement
- Strong emphasis on collaborative partnerships across sectors
How the Programme Works
Step-by-Step Process
- Develop a project aligned with Strand 3 objectives
- Build partnerships with relevant stakeholders
- Prepare a detailed proposal and budget
- Submit the application under Call 2
- Applications are evaluated based on impact and collaboration
- Selected projects receive funding and begin implementation
What Makes a Strong Application
- Clear focus on peacebuilding and community safety
- Strong cross-sector partnerships
- Evidence-based approach to addressing anti-social behaviour
- Measurable outcomes and impact
- Alignment with PEACEPLUS priorities
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Lack of collaboration or weak partnerships
- Proposals not clearly linked to peace and reconciliation
- Vague or unmeasurable outcomes
- Ignoring local community needs
- Overly broad or unfocused project scope
Why This Programme Matters
This initiative is important because it:
- Supports long-term peace and reconciliation efforts
- Strengthens community resilience and cohesion
- Addresses root causes of social conflict
- Promotes cross-border collaboration
- Contributes to a stable and inclusive society
It builds on decades of peacebuilding efforts in the region.
FAQs
1. What is PEACEPLUS Strand 3?
It is a funding stream focused on community empowerment and peacebuilding initiatives.
2. What is the total budget for this call?
€5 million.
3. Who can apply?
Public authorities, NGOs, academic institutions, and private sector organizations.
4. What types of projects are supported?
Community-based safety and peacebuilding interventions.
5. Where is the programme implemented?
Northern Ireland and border counties of Ireland.
6. Is collaboration required?
Yes, strong partnerships are a key requirement.
7. What is the main goal?
To strengthen peace, reconciliation, and community cohesion.
Conclusion
The PEACEPLUS Strand 3 Call 2 offers a significant opportunity for organizations to contribute to peacebuilding and community safety.
By funding collaborative, community-driven initiatives, the programme supports sustainable progress toward a more peaceful, inclusive, and resilient society across Northern Ireland and Ireland.
For more information, visit Special EU Programmes Body.