Laois clubs urged to apply for Sports Capital Grants as funds set to increase

Clubs, organisations and community groups around Laois are being encouraged to apply for the Sports Capital Grants after the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, Catherine Martin TD, and the Minister of State for Sport and Physical Education, Thomas Byrne TD, today announced that a new round of the Sports Capital and Equipment Programme (SCEP) will open for new applications from July 17.

The SCEP is the Government’s primary vehicle for providing support to sports clubs and communities to develop sports infrastructure around the country. Applicants for local projects can now apply for up to €200,000, increased from the previous maximum grant of €150,000. The maximum valid grant available for projects deemed to be of regional significance has been increased from €300,000 to €500,000. 

Sean Fleming TD, Minister of State at the Department of Foreign Affairs, is pleased that the Sports Capital and Equipment Programme application process opens on Monday July 17.

"So many communities in Laois have benefitted from this Government funding in the past and there have been many projects delivered by Laois clubs, organisations and community groups as a result.

"The Sports Capital and Equipment Programme supports the development of sports and recreation facilities and the purchase of sports equipment for different community groups.

"I am encouraging all Laois clubs, organisations and community groups to apply for this funding. Applications must be made online and all Laois groups should carefully examine the application process when applying. Get your applications in now. If you’re not in, you can’t win.", Fleming said.

Minister for State Pippa Hackett also welcomed the announcement of the 2023/2024 Sports Capital and Equipment Programme and encourages sports clubs across the Midlands to make an application.

"I’m delighted today to welcome the announcement from my Green Party colleague, Minister Catherine Martin, that a new round of the Sports Capital and Equipment Programme (SCEP) will open for new applications from July 17.

"The SCEP, will provide support to clubs to develop sports infrastructure and local projects can now apply for up to €200,000, increased from the previous maximum grant of €150,000; while the maximum valid grant available for projects deemed to be of regional significance has been increased from €300,000 to €500,000.

"In addition to the increased rates of the grant, I’m also delighted to see that the funding has a big focus on climate action and sustainability supporting local clubs to take steps to reduce their energy consumption and applying for more efficient lighting.

"Also, for the first time in the history of the fund, projects will only be considered for grant support if access is guaranteed to men and women on equal terms.", Hackett said on the announcement. 

Applications can be made online from July 17 and application forms can be found here.