The Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys, announced €20 million in funding to support the upgrade and refurbishment of community centres across the country.
These community centre grants will cover the upgrade and refurbishment of community buildings.
A wide range of capital costs will be eligible for funding including Refurbishment of Kitchens & Toilets, Upgrades to Windows & Doors, Energy Efficiency Upgrades & Improving access for people with disabilities. Online information sessions, clinics and support events will be held in June, July and August 2024. There is a two stage application process and groups are encouraged to register as soon as possible.
The closing date for final applications will be 29th August 2024.
There are two categories to apply under:
| Category | Grant Amount | Match Funding Required |
| Small scale projects/improvements to facilities | €10,000 – €25,000 | A minimum of 5% of the total project budget is required by the applicant as match funding. |
| Larger scale projects | €25,001 to €100,000 | A minimum of 10% of the total project budge is required by the applicant as match funding. |
Frequently Asked Questions about Community Centre grants
– Costs associated with building/renovation works.
– Works to improve communal facilities such as kitchen and toilet facilities.
– Retrofitting/energy upgrade projects that improve the usability or longevity of the facility and reduce energy bills.
– Upgrades to lighting systems and stage areas.
– Works to address safety concerns, including upgrades to meet fire/ building regulations.
– Purchase of equipment necessary for the ongoing success of the project following completion e.g. kitchen appliances for a kitchen renovation project, improved lighting, installation of a lift to improve access etc.
– Improvements to assist in providing additional or better services to the community e.g. repurposing existing space, kitchen upgrades etc.
– Works to improve access for all within the facility.
– Essential maintenance works e.g. roof repairs etc.
A Community Centre is ”a building that is managed by a community based organisation which is open to and used by a broad range of
individuals and groups within the local community for group activities
such as social events, information/supports and recreation.
You must submit your application through the online portal. In order to register for the online portal.
Firstly, a member of the Board of Directors (or equivalent) must register for a Primary User Account (PAU) on the online Portal.
Once they are approved on the system, this person set up other users who will have their own log-ins to edit the form.
Step 1. Using your username and password provided at registration, access the online
application form on the DRCD website.
Step 2. Complete the online application form and upload relevant supporting
documents.
Step 3. The PAU must review and submit the form by the deadline.
All queries can be addressed to CCIF@drcd.gov.ie
August 29th 2024
Below are the dates for information sessions & Application support clinics:
Tuesday 2nd July 12:30 to 14:00
Wednesday 10th July 17:30 to 19:00
Procurement Information Session: Date TBC
Application Clinic: Wednesday 7th August 12:30 to 14:00
Application Clinic: Tuesday 20th August 17:30 to 19:00
You can register for these events using this link: https://www.gov.ie/en/service/fec91-community-centres-investment-fund/?referrer=https://www.gov.ie/communitycentresfund/
The scheme webpage is located here:
https://www.gov.ie/en/service/fec91-community-centres-investment-fund/?referrer=https://www.gov.ie/communitycentresfund/
If you missed the information sessions, a helpful Powerpoint presentation can be viewed here:
https://www.gov.ie/pdf/?file=https://assets.gov.ie/297542/0daad75f-d7ca-4b66-a3bc-8386a3ae4af8.pdf#page=null
You can find information on Home Energy grants here.
You can find information on Community grants here.
Yes! You can read about our progress developing an “Energy Master Plan” here.
Community centres are at the heart of our plans and we have already assisted in the completion of two energy audits for Wexford town community centers.
These audits will help us identify the most efficient upgrades for local community centres and we plan to help secure funding as part of our overall Register of Opportunities. Keep an eye on the linked page to keep up to date!