Frequently asked questions about funding

What is Culture Ireland?
Culture Ireland is the Irish State Agency that promotes the best of Ireland's arts and culture internationally and assists in the development of Ireland's international cultural relations. The organisation was established in 2005 by the Minister of Arts, Sport and Tourism and is currently managed by a board of directors (appointed by the Minister) and a secretariat from the Department of Arts, Sport and Tourism.
Who is eligible to apply for a grant?
Any artist, arts organisation or cultural practitioner or manager.
How do I apply for a grant?
To apply for a grant, fill in an application form (see link) and submit this to Culture Ireland. The Board meets 4 times a year to consider applications in March, June, September and December. Applications must be received by the 15th of the previous month (i.e. deadlines are 15th February, 15th May, 15th August and 15th November). In all cases, applications must be received in time to allow the Board to consider them at its meeting at least eight weeks before the event for which funding is being sought.
Application forms - how can I find them on this web site?
Application forms may be downloaded from this site.
What type of activities can I apply for?

Culture Ireland will only support applications that include an element of exhibition, performance, participation or presentation to a public wider audience

Examples of eligible applications include:

  • theatre and dance performances abroad by companies which are professionally based, or led by a professional producer or choreographer

  • the travel costs of film-makers presenting films abroad

  • performances abroad by professionally based or professionally led musicians, bands or choral groups
  • travel costs of visual artists and transport of art works
  • readings by authors of their works

Some examples of what we do not support

  • events that have already taken place
  • sports events
  • research, study or professional training
  • funding for purchase / repair of buildings, costumes or equipment
  • town twinning programmes
  • school exchanges or visits
  • publication of books
  • participation in competitive music and dance events
  • travel to Ireland
  • translation
How much can I request?
There is no ceiling on the amount that any applicant can request. However, this is a limited fund with an overall budget for the organisation of €3m in 2006 and ever-increasing demands.
What are my chances of success?
It is difficult to predict: even eligible applications that meet all the published criteria are not guaranteed funding as this is a competitive fund.
When will I get the results of my application?
Culture Ireland usually notifies applicants of its decisions within a maximum of 10 working days after a Board meeting.
When can I apply again?
You cannot re-submit an application for the same project or proposal. A new proposal may be submitted at the next funding round.
How do I prepare my application?
In preparing your application it is important to read our guidelines (also available in PDF format). Ensure that your proposal is eligible for a grant and that you can clearly describe how the proposal addresses all the published criteria. Be careful to complete all sections of the application form in full.
When should I apply?
As early as possible in advance of the event when you have the full details of the project but please do not make a submission until you can fully complete the application process as incomplete applications will not be eligible. The Board of Culture Ireland meets 4 times a year to consider applications in March, June, September and December. Applications must be received by the 15th of the previous month (i.e. deadlines are 15th February, 15th May, 15th August and 15th November). In all cases, applications must be received in time to allow the Board to consider them at its meeting at least eight weeks before the event for which funding is being sought.
How will payment of my grant be scheduled and will I receive a percentage in advance of the event?
Payment is dependent on Culture Ireland getting receipts for expenditure undertaken during the project. No part of the grant is available in advance of the activity taking place. Receipts must be submitted, with an original Irish Tax Clearance Certificate and a completed report form within 6 weeks of the event having taken place.
Can I make a number of applications at the same time for different events?
Yes. However, an unsuccessful application will not be reconsidered.
Who assesses my application?
The Board of Culture Ireland assesses all applications.
Can I appeal the decision?
No, there is no process for reconsideration of rejected applications.