Applications for the 2022-23 DCMS Grassroots Facilities Investment Fund opened on Thursday 29 September 2022 at 9am.

The fund aims to allow grassroots football clubs in Northern Ireland (NI) to improve and refurbish facilities, helping to create a better grassroots football infrastructure foundation.

A total funding pot of £700,000 was available in 2021-22, distributed via the Irish FA, for small capital grassroots projects. In this latest tranche of funding a further total funding pot of £700,000 is available for the 2022-23 financial year. This funding is for small capital grassroots projects to improve football infrastructure throughout NI, thus increasing participation in the grassroots game.

The minimum award available in this tranche of funding will be £15,000 with a maximum award of up to £30,000. The objective of the award is to represent around 75% of the total project cost, with 25% match funding to be available from an alternative source. Greater levels of match funding may be viewed more favourably whilst lower levels will be considered in the context of the strength of the overall application.

The main objectives of the Irish FA/DCMS Grassroots Facilities Investment Fund are:

• To improve the capital infrastructure of grassroots football clubs across Northern Ireland

• To increase participation in sport and physical activity across Northern Ireland, improving mental and physical health of participants

• To increase participation in non-football sports (40% of project value) through funding multi-sports facilities

• To reduce the postcode lottery for quality facilities by directing at least 50% of investment to disadvantaged or areas of deprivation and boost participation in sport

• To deliver improved access for women and girls (100% equal access), and other under-represented groups, to increase participation in these groups and improve availability and accessibility of facilities.

Information relating to the 2022-23 funding scheme, including eligible projects/applicants and the application process, is detailed on the Information and Guidance Notes document.

Closing date for applications is Monday 24 October 2022.

For more information and to apply, please visit Irish FA/ DCMS Grassroots Facilities Investment Fund...