Deadline: 31-Dec-2026
The Quality of Life Small Grants Scheme by the Ministry for Inclusion and the Voluntary Sector (MIV) provides up to €5,000 to voluntary organisations for projects that promote inclusion, accessibility, and community engagement. The programme supports initiatives across social, cultural, technological, and advocacy domains to improve the wellbeing of vulnerable and diverse community members.
Programme Overview
The Quality of Life Small Grants Scheme aims to empower voluntary organisations to implement practical projects that enhance community wellbeing. The scheme focuses on creating inclusive environments, reducing social inequalities, and encouraging active participation across diverse community groups.
Key focus areas include:
- Accessibility Improvements – making physical and digital environments inclusive
- Inclusive Social Activities – leisure, culture, sports, and community engagement
- Reducing Social Inequalities – promoting participation for vulnerable or marginalized groups
- Volunteer Engagement – involving beneficiaries in voluntary work
- Support Services – providing aid and resources to vulnerable persons
- Disability Inclusion – enhancing participation and involvement of persons with disabilities
- Technology for Inclusion – leveraging tech tools to promote accessibility
- Skills Development & Community Engagement – fostering learning and active citizenship
- Advocacy & Networking – aligned with local disability or voluntary policies
- Research Initiatives – studies supporting evidence-based policy and community action
Eligibility
Eligible applicants must:
- Be voluntary organisations registered and compliant with the Office of the Commissioner for Voluntary Organisations (OCVO) at the time of application
- Demonstrate capacity to implement projects that promote inclusion, accessibility, and wellbeing
Funding Details
- Maximum grant: €5,000 including VAT per project
- Total scheme allocation for 2026: €60,000
- For expenses exceeding €100, applicants must provide at least three quotations
Funding can support projects across social, cultural, technological, advocacy, or research domains that directly improve the quality of life in local communities.
Why This Scheme Matters
- Enables organisations to translate ideas into actionable projects
- Promotes inclusion, accessibility, and community participation
- Empowers vulnerable groups and fosters engagement across age and ability levels
- Supports initiatives that strengthen social cohesion and community wellbeing
How to Apply / How It Works
- Confirm Eligibility: Ensure your organisation is registered and compliant with OCVO.
- Project Planning: Develop a project aligned with the scheme’s focus areas.
- Expense Planning: For items above €100, obtain at least three quotations.
- Application Submission: Apply through the official MIV portal before the deadline.
- Project Implementation: Execute your initiative with the grant, following inclusive and participatory principles.
- Reporting: Submit required updates and financial documentation according to the grant guidelines.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying as an unregistered or non-compliant organisation
- Submitting projects outside the scheme’s focus areas
- Failing to obtain three quotations for high-cost items
- Designing projects that do not actively engage beneficiaries or promote inclusion
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who can apply for this scheme?
Voluntary organisations registered and compliant with OCVO at the time of application.
2. What is the maximum funding available?
Up to €5,000 per project, including VAT, with a total scheme allocation of €60,000 for 2026.
3. What types of projects are supported?
Projects promoting inclusion, accessibility, social engagement, volunteer participation, skills development, technology, advocacy, or research.
4. Are quotations required for project expenses?
Yes, for any expense exceeding €100, at least three quotations must be provided.
5. Can projects focus on disability inclusion?
Yes, enhancing the participation and engagement of persons with disabilities is a key focus area.
6. What is the expected impact of funded projects?
To improve community wellbeing, foster social cohesion, and empower vulnerable groups through inclusive initiatives.
7. How long is the project duration?
The scheme does not specify a fixed duration, but projects should be practical, feasible, and aligned with grant timelines.
Conclusion
The Quality of Life Small Grants Scheme empowers voluntary organisations to implement inclusive and community-driven initiatives. By funding projects that promote accessibility, social engagement, and skills development, the scheme enhances wellbeing, participation, and cohesion in local communities, ensuring vulnerable groups have meaningful opportunities to thrive.
For more information, visit Ministry for Inclusion and the Voluntary Sector.