Source: Government of Ireland
Welcoming the announcement of today’s grantees, Edel Curtin, Coughlan’s Cork, speaking on behalf of the Live Venue Collective said:
The 2026 scheme offered grants under two separate Streams to support venues at various levels of development. Grants of up to €20k were available under Stream A to established grassroots venues with a proven track record in programming emerging Irish artists. Stream B offered grants of up to €8k to venues who have previously programmed Irish artists and will use funding under this scheme to programme emerging artists performing live music or comedy.
Applications were received from a wide range of late-night venues including pubs, nightclubs and theatres. Venues in many rural towns and villages are being supported, with funding awarded to 28 venues outside of our major cities.
Applications were assessed by the NTE Unit with input from an independent expert panel in accordance with the guidelines for the scheme.
The Grassroots Venues Support Scheme is a Night-Time Economy initiative in support of the work of the Night-Time Economy Taskforce and following a recommendation emerging from Action 5 in the revised Night-Time Economy Action Plan.
This scheme will provide funding for a series of events showcasing grassroots artists performing material they have written/created themselves. It is envisaged that these events will also provide employment for crew, light and sound engineering, marketing and PR, as well as increasing footfall to grassroots venues and contributing to a thriving night-time economy.