Government announces funding for LGBTIQ+ community

The fund is earmarked to promote inclusion and better enable members of the LGBTIQ+ community to participate in Irish life.

The €2m is available as part of the 2027 LGBTIQ+ Community Services Fund, under which people can apply for grants under two schemes.

Scheme A supports existing LGBTIQ+ organizations and community organizations to develop new initiatives and to maintain and enhance existing services and initiatives.

Applications can be made for funds between €25,000 and €100,000.

Scheme B provides smaller grants of between €5,000 and €10,000 for projects that promote visibility and inclusion of LGBTIQ+ people.

In 2027, a total allocation of €2m is expected to be available to support LGBTIQ+ organizations.

Announcing the opening of the call for applications, Ms Foley said the aim of the fund is to “promote inclusion, protect rights and to improve quality of life and wellbeing for members of the LGBTIQ+ community, enabling them to participate fully in Ireland’s social, economic, cultural, and political life”.

She added: “This fund is a key component in the Government’s commitment to building an Ireland where every LGBTQ+ person feels safe, supported and included.

“Across the country, community organizations play an invaluable role in providing essential services, creating safe, supportive spaces and promoting belonging.

“This funding will help organizations continue their important work, supporting community-led initiatives in advancing equality, fostering inclusion and helping to ensure that every LGBTIQ+ person can live a healthy, inclusive, fulfilling life free from discrimination.”

Applications for funding will remain open until December 16, 2026.

* This article was originally published on BusinessPlus.ie.