The Community Heritage Grant Scheme is an annual grant scheme for community groups and not-for-profit non-governmental organisations to protect, share, and celebrate the heritage that matters to your community.

The Heritage Council is pleased to announce that Expressions of Interest (EOIs) for the Community Heritage Grant Scheme 2027 are open from 18 September 2026 until the 16th October 2026. 

Community and voluntary groups and non-governmental organisations are invited to begin preparing their applications for this new funding opportunity, which supports projects that protect, conserve, celebrate, understand and share Ireland’s heritage

Details here: https://www.heritagecouncil.ie/funding/community-heritage-grant-scheme-2

New Two-Stage Application Process

For 2027, the scheme introduces a new two-stage application process:

Stage 1: Expression of Interest (EOI) 

Applicants submit a short outline of their project idea, the heritage involved, the need for the project, its community benefits, and how it aligns with one of the scheme themes. Detailed budgets, quotations and supporting documentation are not required at this stage.

Stage 2: Full Application 

Projects shortlisted from Stage 1 will be invited to submit a full application with detailed project information and supporting documentation.

Why the change?

The new two-stage process is designed to make applying easier for not-for-profit groups and organisations. The Expression of Interest stage allows applicants to submit an outline of their project idea without the need to prepare detailed budgets, quotations or supporting documentation at the outset. This helps groups explore project ideas and receive feedback before investing time in a full application.

Scheme Guidance Documents

To support applicants through the new two-stage process, we have developed a suite of guidance documents, including detailed theme guidance and a dedicated Expression of Interest Form Guidance document containing the online application questions, example answers and practical tips for preparing a strong Expression of Interest.

• Community Heritage Grant Scheme 2027 – General Guidance
• Expression of Interest Application Guidance
• Heritage at Risk Theme Guidance
• Biodiversity & Nature Restoration Theme Guidance
• Traditional Skills & Conservation Theme Guidance
• Digital Heritage, Access & Storytelling Theme Guidance
• Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Theme Guidance
• Climate Action and Resilience Guidance
• Checklist for planning your digitisation project
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Funding Available

• Minimum grant: €800
• Maximum grant: €25,000
• Most awards are expected to be between €10,000 and €25,000

Scheme Themes

Applicants must select one primary theme:

• Heritage at Risk
• Biodiversity & Nature Restoration
• Traditional Skills & Conservation
• Digital Heritage, Access & Storytelling
• Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Key Dates

• Expression of Interest Opens: 18 September 2026
• Expression of Interest Deadline: 16 October 2026 at 5.00pm
• Stage 1 Results: Early November 2026
• Full Application Deadline (shortlisted applicants only): 15 January 2027 at 5.00pm

Useful resources for heritage projects

We have put together a list of resources here, which we hope you find helpful when planning and developing your heritage project. These include ideas for project promotion, access and inclusion, good heritage advice guidance etc.

Information Webinar

An online information webinar for applicants will take place on 28 September 2026 at 12 noon.

Register here: Webinar Registration – Zoom

Apply Online

Applications must be submitted through the Online Grants System | The Heritage Council. Applications by email or post cannot be accepted.

Please ensure your Expression of Interest is submitted before the deadline, as late applications cannot be accepted.

For full details, eligibility criteria and guidance, please read the scheme guidelines and theme guidance notes before applying.

For further information, contact grants@heritagecouncil.ie.