Live Grant Applications
Architectural Conservation Area Grant
The ACA Grant Scheme is now open and the final date for receipt of applications is Friday 7th February, 2025.
The purpose of Cork City Council's Architectural Conservation Area (ACA) grant scheme is to assist the owners of historic buildings in the 42 ACAs across Cork City to undertake external works necessary to secure their conservation e.g. repairs of windows, doors, roofs and chimneys, gutters, railings and shopfronts. Reinstatement of lost character may also be considered where this benefitsthe ACA. Works must be in line with best conservation practice and should aim to employ methods of minimal intervention.
Grants of up to €20,000 are available under this scheme. Works can be funded up to a maximum rate of 50% of the project cost. As there is a limited overall budget (approximately €130,000) available for this grant scheme, it is a competitive process and not all applications received can be grant aided.
To apply, click here
LCDC Local Enhancement Capital Programme 2025
The Cork City Local Community Development Committee (LCDC) and Cork City Council are seeking applications for the Cork City LCDC Local Enhancement Capital Programme 2025.
Funded by the Department of Rural and Community Development and administered by Cork City Council, the grant is divided into two streams:
1. The Local Enhancement Programme: This is a capital fund designed to support groups, particularly in disadvantaged areas, in carrying out necessary repairs and improvements to their facilities, as well as purchasing equipment for community use. The funding may also be used, but is not limited to, improving access for persons with disabilities, enhancing community participation for disadvantaged and marginalized groups, and improving the energy efficiency of community facilities.
2. The LCDC Local Enhancement Fund Running Costs: This funding stream, provided by the Department of Rural and Community Development, offers financial support to community groups to help cover running costs, such as rental/lease expenses, utility bills, and insurance costs associated with providing a community service or hub.
Commenting on the 2025 Local Enhancement Fund, Assistant Chief Executive of Cork City Council Brian Geaney said: “Cork City Council is committed to supporting community groups throughout the city. These grants offer vital funding to groups in disadvantaged areas, helping them improve the health and wellbeing of local communities. In partnership with the Department of Rural and Community Development, we are proud to support the incredible work these groups do, as they continue to play a vital role in strengthening and enriching our society.”
Further details regarding the 2025 grants, including the online application form, can be found at www.corkcity.ie and the Submit Portal: https://corkcity.submit.com//show/368
The closing date for receipt of applications is 5:00 p.m. on 7th February 2025.
Creative Communities and Conservation
Two funding rounds are now open to support creative community projects and the care and conservation of archaeological monuments across Cork.
Firstly, owners and custodians of archaeological monuments in the city are being invited to apply for Community Monuments funding for their structures and buildings.
The funding is prioritised for the care, conservation, maintenance, protection and promotion of archaeological monuments. The fund will be administered locally by Cork City Council Archaeologist, Ciara Brett.
Full details of the fund are set out in the handbook at www.corkcity.ie/en/council-services/news-room/latest-news/community-monuments-fund-2025-announced.html
The closing date for applications is 5pm on Friday January 31 2025 and should be submitted to archaeology@corkcity.ie .
Applications will be assessed by the local authority in advance of being submitted to the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage. Please contact Ciara Brett at archaeology@corkcity.ie to discuss a possible project.
In 2024, Cork City Council received €160,000 for three projects in Cork City. Conservation works were undertaken at St Fin Barre’s Cathedral and conservation management plans and surveys were completed at St Anne’s Church, Shandon and St Peter’s North Main Street.
Separately, the 2025 Creative Communities Grant Scheme, funded by Creative Ireland, has been launched by Cork City Council.
This exciting initiative aims to empower communities by supporting creative projects that foster artistic expression, strengthen community connections, and create lasting social benefits.
Now in its third year, the 2025 scheme introduces a pilot two-tier funding model designed to better support a range of creative projects:
- Level 1: €1,500 - €3,000, ideal for smaller-scale projects or pilot initiatives.
- Level 2: Up to €6,000, suitable for larger, more ambitious projects with significant scope and impact.
Applications are invited from community groups across Cork City, including schools, youth clubs, neighbourhood groups, and other social, cultural, or environmental communities.
Artists/creative practitioners may also apply, provided they have the active support of a target community group. All eligible projects must demonstrate collaboration between the applicant and artists or creative practitioners and address at least two priorities outlined in the Cork City Culture & Creativity Strategy 2023-2027.
Applications must be submitted online via Cork City Council’s Submit platform at corkcity.submit.com/show/371. The deadline for submissions is Wednesday, February 12 2025.
For more information on the Creative Communities Grant Scheme and to register for the webinar, visit eventbrite.co.uk/e/creative-communities-grant-scheme-2025-information-webinar-tickets-1057851485269 or contact Louise Tangney, Creative Communities Engagement Officer, at louise_tangney@corkcity.ie.