The application window for Ireland's 2025/2026 Emigrant Support Programme (ESP) funding opened on January 29 and will close on February 19 at 23:59 (11:59 pm) Irish time.
Ireland's Emigrant Support Programme supports Irish communities abroad.
Working through hundreds of organizations around the world, it focuses primarily on support for the vulnerable and underrepresented, and nurturing Ireland’s cultural heritage abroad.
The ESP prioritizes projects that are in line with the objectives of the Irish Government’s Diaspora Strategy 2020-2025.
The funding year runs from July 1 each year until 30 June the following year, while the application window for the Emigrant Support Programme runs from the end of January to mid-February each year.
There are two separate applications for ESP funding - one 'regular' application for those seeking total funding of more than €30k, and another 'small grant' application for those seeking total funding of €30k or less. (That's $35k in the US, $45k in Canada, £25k in Britain, and $50k in Australia).
The Small Grants Scheme involves a shorter application form with less reporting throughout the year.
Applications for ESP funding can only be made online; hard copy or emailed applications will not be accepted.
Organizations applying for ESP funding should be established as registered charities, charitable bodies, or voluntary/not-for-profit organizations.
Generally, applications must be made under the categories of heritage, community care, business networks, and / or capital.
Tips on how to write an ESP application are available online here and a guide on how to register for the Grants Application Portal is available here.
Each year, the demand for funding exceeds the amount available. Due to the large number of applications, it is not possible to provide a grant to all eligible applicants. However, unsuccessful applicants should consider applying again in future rounds.
Since 2004, Ireland's Emigrant Support Programme has assisted more than 900 organizations in 51 countries. Grants issued total over €250 million.
Individual grants have ranged from small amounts for grass-roots groups to major allocations awarded to voluntary and community organizations operating on a large scale.
The Irish Abroad Unit in Ireland's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade manages and coordinates the Emigrant Support Programme.
The ESP is funded through taxpayer money and is therefore public funding. The highest levels of transparency and accountability are applied. Reports on the impacts and the success of projects funded and financial reports are required as part of the ESP process.
You can learn more about Ireland's Emigrant Support Programme, including how to apply, here at Ireland.ie.
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