New grant to boost Limerick city's night time economy
Scheme is offering funding of up to €5,000 for new and creative ideas
LIMERICK City and County Council is "excited" to announce the Night Time Economy Innovation Grant Scheme.
The scheme is offering funding of up to €5,000 for new and creative ideas that will contribute to Limerick city centre’s night time offering.
Local businesses, community groups, event organisers, collaborators, and individuals are invited to develop and trial innovative projects between Sunday and Thursday after 6pm in August, September and October 2024.
Limerick city is one of nine pilot locations across the country selected to develop a Night Time Economy Action Plan with various interventions to support a coordinated growth.
"The grant funding scheme is designed to pilot new night time activities and events. If these initiatives prove successful and sustainable, they may be considered for long-term support.
The primary goal of this funding is to encourage collaboration and offer a broader range of night time experiences for residents, workers, and visitors in Limerick.
"If you have a business idea or concept that can enhance the vibrancy of the city centre, seize this opportunity to apply for a grant and test your idea," said a council spokesperson.
Key Features of the Scheme
Grant amounts: A minimum of €1,000 and a maximum of €5,000 will be available to successful applicants.
Event timing: Proposed events or initiatives must take place between Sunday and Thursday after 6pm in Limerick city centre.
Event dates: Events must occur between August 19 and October 31, 2024.
Event listing: All events supported under the Night Time Economy Innovation Fund will be listed on Limerick.ie, ensuring adequate promotion.
Eligible events: Funding is available for a wide range of activities (this could be a one off trial, or a series). Examples include, but are not limited to: late evening or night tours, live music, DJs, dancing, exhibitions, poetry readings, comedy shows, theatre, film, live podcasts, storytelling, creative classes, wellbeing initiatives, fitness activities, light shows, and historical themed events.
Collaboration encouraged: Applicants are encouraged to partner with new collaborators to attract diverse audiences and inspire new uses of existing community spaces.
Larger grants: Applications for amounts over €3,000 will be considered for multi-partner proposals demonstrating unique, collaborative approaches for more ambitious programs. These will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
Assessment: An independent panel will award funding competitively. All applications must include comprehensive supporting information. Incomplete applications will be considered ineligible.
Grant payments: will be made based on paid invoices and receipts submitted with proof of payment, only for the approved expenditures. Cash payments to suppliers are not permitted.
Evaluation: Grantees must complete an evaluation questionnaire to assess the effectiveness of the funding and gather learnings for future best practices.
Promotion: Programmes must be advertised locally to ensure maximum visibility.
How to Apply for Funding
Please download the guidelines and application form limerick.ie
The closing date for applications is Friday, August 9, 2024. Successful applicants will be notified in mid-August. All funds must be drawn down within two weeks of the event completion.
Completed applications must be submitted by email to Ashlene Reyburn, Night Time Economy Advisor, Limerick City and County Council: Email: [email protected] / Phone: 061 556 586
For those seeking guidance, Ms Reyburn is happy to discuss and recommend ideas and concepts. Please reach out for assistance in refining your proposal.
"Join us in making Limerick city centre a vibrant and diverse night time destination. Apply now and bring your innovative ideas to life!" said the spokesperson.