€25 million of funding announced for Community Centre Investment Fund
€25 million of funding has been announced under the Community Centre Investment Fund (CCIF) for this year.
The CCIF focuses support upgrade and enhancement works to existing community centres nationwide. CCIF in 2022 and 2024 provided over €80m for almost 1,650 community centre refurbishment projects and over €30 million has also been provided to build 12 new centres.
The fund will provide grants from €10,000 to €100,000 towards capital costs with applications being accepted from 29th May and closing on 13th July. Applicants are asked to register their organisation in advance of the application process which groups can do right now.
Community facilities include buildings managed by 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.
For projects costing €10,000 to €25,000 A minimum of 5% of the total project budget is required by the applicant as match funding. This increases to 10% for projects costing €25,001 to €100,000.
Making the announcement today (26th March), for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary TD said: “The Community Centre Investment Fund has had a transformative impact across the country. Since the inception of this Fund, over €111 million has already been provided to support community centres in their role at the very heart of community life.
“This scheme can be used for a range of refurbishment works such as new roofs, energy upgrades, accessibility measures, new kitchen facilities, new stage and lighting, essential repairs and lots more.”
Funding is available for costs associated with building and renovation works, acquisition, installation or replacement of integral equipment, improving energy efficiency, This also includes covering construction costs such as for renting construction equipment, hiring professionals, and labour costs for tradespeople. Fire safety and building regulations improvements and equipment, electrical, gas and heating appliances upgrades, and other safety and accessibilty measures can also be included in the grant.
Online information sessions, clinics and support events will be held in April, May, June and July 2026. Check with DRCDG Website here for further details and links for registering.
All applicants must register as 'users' on the online portal here in advance of the application process. Groups that applied for this fund previously will not need to register again but should check that their details are still correct.
All materials to support applicants including template application form, guidelines, FAQ document and details on information sessions can be found at the Department of Rural & Community Development and the Gaeltacht website here.