Rethink Ireland, in partnership with the Sunflower Charitable Foundation and the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht via the Dormant Accounts Fund are delighted to share details with your organisation about the launch of the Children’s Active Play Fund.    

About the Children’s Active Play Fund:  

We invite applications from charitable organisations delivering innovative projects that encourage movement, activity and social connections, making it easier and more enjoyable for young people to lead active lives. 

The fund offers a package of cash grants and non-financial supports for up to eight projects to help them expand and increase their social impact. 

This includes:  

• A multi-year cash grant worth up to between €130,000 – €210,000 (per successful project) 
• The non-financial supports include: 
  • A place on Rethink Ireland’s Accelerator Programme. 
  • Business and capacity-building supports designed in consultation with successful projects on topics such as strategic planning, impact management, communications, and fundraising. 
• Access to Rethink Ireland’s networks. 

Applicants can join one of our application clinics on Wednesday 24 September 2025 and Wednesday 1 October 2025. These one-hour webinars will provide information on fund eligibility and the application process and offer an opportunity to answer any questions you have. Register for an application clinic here: 

• Wednesday 24 September at 11am – Register here
• Wednesday 1 October at 11am – Register here

Applicants can apply to the Children’s Active Play Fund via this online application.

Applications are open from Monday, 1 September 2025 to Friday, 10 October 2025 at 1PM

The full list of eligibility criteria can be found here on our website as well as details on how to submit your online application.