Applications open for Longford Sports Partnership's 2026 Club Development and Volunteer Supports Scheme
Scheme will support local clubs, volunteers and inclusive participation
Press Release: Monday, 19 October 2026
Longford Sports Partnership, in association with Longford County Council, is inviting sports clubs across the county to apply for the 2026 Club Development and Volunteer Supports Scheme. Funded by Sport Ireland, the scheme will help clubs strengthen their activities, support volunteers and create more opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to take part in sport and physical activity.
Funding under the scheme is available for sports clubs aiming to increase participation in sport and physical activity through innovative initiatives. The maximum grant is €500 for club development, which includes equipment and €500 for volunteer supports, which includes coaching. Expenditure already spent in 2026 can be included in the application.
Welcoming the funding scheme, Longford County Council Cathaoirleach Cllr Gerry Hagan said, “Sports clubs play a vital role in bringing people together, building community spirit and supporting health and wellbeing across County Longford. Behind every successful club is a dedicated team of volunteers who give their time and energy to help others take part. This funding is an important investment in those volunteers and the clubs they support, and I would encourage all eligible organisations to make an application.”
Chief Executive of Longford County Council, Samantha Healy said, “Longford County Council is committed to supporting vibrant, active and inclusive communities. Through this scheme, clubs can access practical supports that will help them grow membership, strengthen volunteer capacity and provide more opportunities for people to get involved in sport. We particularly welcome applications from clubs working to engage underrepresented groups and encourage every eligible club to avail of this funding opportunity."
Applications are particularly welcome from new clubs or clubs involved in minority sports. Applications are also welcome from clubs targeting groups who have low levels of participation, including older people, girls and women, people with disabilities, unemployed people and those who live in identified disadvantaged communities.
To be eligible for this scheme, sports clubs must be registered with a National Governing Body (NGB) for sport affiliated to Sport Ireland and registered with County Longford Public Participation Network (PPN), to register, visit Longfordppn.ie.
The closing date for completed applications is 5pm on Wednesday, 28 October. Late applications will not be considered. Application criteria and online application link are available on www.longfordsports.ie
For further details, contact Longford Local Sports Partnership by emailing: sports@longfordcoco.ie or calling 043 334 3493.

