Established bands in Northern Ireland can now apply for support to cover travel costs to play at showcase opportunities outside Northern Ireland.

The new Travel Awards for Bands programme is delivered by the Arts Council of Northern Ireland with funding from the Department for Communities.

The scheme aims to help bands develop performance skills, expand networks and reach new audiences. It also seeks to improve equality of access to the arts within the sector. Applicants must provide evidence that they have been invited to perform by an organisation, event, festival or promoter in their chosen location.

Applications are open to formally constituted bands based in Northern Ireland. Eligible groups include accordion, brass, concert, flute, pipe and wind bands. Priority will be given to applications showing strong musicianship, a commitment to training, particularly for young people, and development of repertoire and technical standards.

Grants of between £500 and £5,000 are available, with all travel to be completed by 31 March 2026. Eligible expenditure includes transport costs such as flights, boats, trains, bus tickets, vehicle hire and fuel. Accommodation, subsistence and insurance are not eligible.

The deadline for applications is 22 September 2025 (noon). For more information, please visit Travel Award for Bands | Arts Council NI