The Government has announced the timetable for the 2026 Community Sport Facilities Fund (CSFF), formerly known as the Sports Capital Grant.
More info: https://grantsandfunding.ie/2026-community-sport-facilities-fund-sports-capital-grant-opening-dates/
The new SPRAOI grant management system will go live on Monday 28 September 2026. Sports clubs and organisations that have not previously registered with the Department will be able to register from this date.
Key dates:
🔹 28 September 2026 – Registration opens
🔹 19 October 2026 – Funding applications open
🔹 25 February 2027 – Applications close
The CSFF is the Government’s primary funding programme for supporting sports clubs and communities to develop and improve sports infrastructure across Ireland.
The 2026 funding round will include changes designed to make the application process easier and open funding opportunities to a wider range of applicants.
The enhanced scheme includes: Grants of up to €250,000 for local projects; Tier 2 grants ranging from €250,000 to €550,000; A new Tier 3 providing grants of up to €750,000 for larger multi-sport facilities; Simplified eligibility and reduced lease requirements; Greater support for partnerships between sports clubs and schools.
There will also be a strong focus on multi-sport collaboration and partnerships between sports clubs and schools, helping to create more shared sporting facilities.
Projects will need to provide equal access for men and women, while priority will also be given to projects demonstrating a commitment to the “sport for all” ethos.
Full details of the 2026 funding round are expected to be published during the week commencing 12 October.
If your club or organisation is not already registered, registration on the new SPRAOI system is the first step towards applying for funding.
Clubs already registered on the previous OSCAR system will have their details automatically transferred to SPRAOI, but should check that their information is accurate.
Deadline: 26th February 2027