Galway County Council’s Community Support Schemes (CSS) 2026, closing to applications on 23 January, will see funding invested in community and voluntary groups across the county.
As in previous years, the schemes provide financial support to voluntary, non‑profit groups for projects that strengthen local communities across community development, cultural development, environmental improvement, sports participation and development, and tourism, festivals and events. Grants generally range up to €3,000, with some categories offering higher limits.
The Schemes have benefited hundreds of projects across County Galway in recent years.
Athenry Music School received funding in 2024 to further develop and present a youth‑led composition on climate grief first premiered in 2020. More than 200 students from five local schools, together with the school’s choirs and youth orchestra, took part in free workshops focused on listening, ensemble awareness and expressive performance. The project culminated in a major performance of Elemental Dance at the National Concert Hall, captured in documentary and concert films that showcased the creative process and brought together students, composers, educators and community partners in a celebration of youth, music and resilience.
Williamstown Tidy Towns, a long‑established and highly successful participant in both the National Tidy Towns Competition and Pride of Place, continues to demonstrate strong leadership in community development in the northeast Galway village. The group has been particularly active in advancing biodiversity and environmental initiatives. Most recently, it secured Community Support Scheme funding for a Beehive Pollinator Planting Project supporting efforts to protect the native Irish Black Bee. It has also developed a thriving fruit and vegetable growing project in a community polytunnel, providing fresh produce for residents.
Gort Arts, a collective of local artists committed to community‑centred creativity, applied for funding in 2025 to deliver a series of workshops and a joyful Brigid’s Day celebration in Gort. In the lead‑up to the weekend, the community took part in straw‑hat making, brat Bhríde and Brideóg doll workshops. The Bank Holiday programme featured choir performances, céilí dancing, a visual art trail, traditional music and storytelling, culminating in a vibrant community procession through the town.
Applications for the 2026 schemes must be submitted by 23 January at 4pm via https://galwaycoco.submit.com.
Irish Language Promotional Activities forms are available on this website or by emailing gaeilge@cocogaillimh.ie.
For more, visit https://www.galway.ie/en/news/2025/community-support-schemes-2026.