Funding Opportunities for Festivals & Events in 2025

We are delighted to share several funding opportunities available for festivals and events across Ireland in 2025. These grants are designed to support local and community initiatives that celebrate culture, stimulate economic activity, and attract tourism. If you are planning an event, securing funding can help enhance its success.

Below are some of the current funding options available:

1. Cork County Council – Local Festival & Event Fund 2025

Cork County Council has launched a funding initiative aimed at supporting festivals and cultural events throughout the year. This programme focuses on events that highlight local heritage, drive economic growth, and encourage tourism within Cork county. Eligible organisers can apply for grants of up to €6,000. For more details, visit: Cork County Council

2. Galway County Council – Community Support Schemes 2025

Galway County Council provides annual financial support for community-driven projects and events through its Community Support Schemes. These schemes focus on Economic, Community, and Cultural Development. The submission deadline was Monday, 10th February 2025. For further information, visit: Galway County Council

3. Kerry County Council – Festival & Participative Events Programme 2025

Kerry County Council, in partnership with Fáilte Ireland, is offering funding for regional festivals and participative events that showcase Kerry’s attractions and promote sustainable tourism. Applications opened on Monday, 27th January 2025. For more details, visit: Kerry County Council

4. Fingal County Council – Festival & Events Funding Scheme 2025

Fingal County Council supports events across the county through its Events Unit. The 2025 Festival & Events Funding Scheme closed on Saturday, 21st December 2024, with successful applicants notified in January 2025. For further details, visit: Fingal County Council

5. Louth County Council – Festival Grant Initiative 2025

Louth County Council is offering funding of up to €8,000 for local and community festivals or events that contribute to the county’s economy and tourism sector. For more details, visit: Louth County Council

6. Carlow County Council – Festival & Event Fund 2025

Carlow County Council’s Festival and Events Grant Scheme is available to assist in the creation, promotion, and development of events in the county. The application period ran from 4th February to 28th February 2025. For more details, visit: Carlow County Council

7. Clare County Council – Local Area Grant Scheme 2025

Clare County Council’s Local Area Grant Scheme supports various community initiatives across twelve categories. Applications closed on 31st January 2025. For further details, visit: Clare County Council

8. Monaghan County Council – Festival & Event Funding 2025

Monaghan County Council has announced two fantastic funding opportunities for festivals and events in 2025! If you’re planning an event that will attract visitors to Monaghan, check out these funding schemes:

Scheme 1 – Tourism Festival Funding Programme 2025 Supports small tourism-focused festivals and events, helping local organisers bring more visitors to Monaghan. Funding: Up to €2,000 per event Apply here: Tourism Festival Funding Programme 2025 Apply here:

Scheme 2 – Fáilte Ireland Regional Festivals & Participative Events Funding Supports larger regional festivals designed to boost domestic tourism and attract international visitors. Funding: Up to €5,000 (for 1-2 events). Apply here: Fáilte Ireland Festival Fund 2025

Deadline for both schemes: 5:00 PM, Thursday, 27th March 2025

For more details, contact Monaghan Tourism at tourism@monaghancoco.ie.

Stay Updated on Future Funding Opportunities

Funding deadlines vary, and some application periods may have already closed. However, new opportunities frequently arise throughout the year. We encourage all event organisers to check the respective council websites for up-to-date information and upcoming funding rounds.

Securing funding can make a significant difference in the success of your event. If you’re planning a festival or community event, be sure to explore these opportunities and keep an eye out for additional funding announcements.

For more event-related updates and support, stay connected with IOMST!

Grainne & Greg