Galway music venues invited to apply for €1m night-time economy scheme supporting emerging artists
Applications for a new €1m night-time economy support scheme for local venues have opened following a formal launch at the Róisín Dubh in Galway City.
Culture Minister Patrick O’Donovan opened the Night-Time Economy Grassroots Venue Support Scheme, which invites applications from local venues that highlight and showcase emerging artists.
The launch event was hosted at the Róisín Dubh, one of Galway’s popular music venues and late bars, and featured performances by local bands.
Local venues in Galway that meet specific criteria can apply for one of two funding streams aimed at supporting artists and performances within the emerging Irish music scene.
The first funding stream is for venues that have at least two years of programming and a strong track record of supporting Irish-affiliated early-career artists who are in full ownership of the material presented. This stream has an allocation of €800,000.
Successful applicants under the first funding stream may draw down 90pc of grants of up to €20,000. The remaining 10pc must be self-funded, in addition to any costs deemed ineligible under the scheme.
The second funding stream supports venues seeking to enter the scene. Eligible venues that have programmed Irish-based artists within the last 10 months, and that commit to continuing to support the growth of Irish artists through the funding received, may apply.
Under this stream, venues can receive up to €8,000 from a €200,000 fund. Successful applicants may draw down 90pc of the approved funding. The minimum grant available under this stream is €3,000.
Applications will be assessed by a panel depending on the funding stream applied for. A total of 80 marks is available, with scores based on the suitability and track record of the venue as well as the information provided in the application.
Successful venues will receive an offer outlining the estimated funding available, subject to sufficient funds remaining in the scheme. Events supported under the programme must take place by November 8, 2026, and drawdown requests must be submitted before November 13, 2026.
Ineligible costs include improv comedy, literary events, events held before 6pm, private or invitation-only events, or events already publicly funded through other grants or schemes.
Additional eligibility criteria apply for both funding streams, including a venue capacity capped at 500 people or fewer, photographic evidence of an audience space or dance floor, equipment to facilitate live music or performances, and dedicated personnel responsible for organising and managing venue operations.
Hotel bars, sporting venues, third-level colleges, private residences and festivals are among those not eligible to apply.
Funding for the scheme has doubled from €500,000 in 2025 to €1m this year, expanding opportunities for music venues across the city.
Applications remain open until 12pm on March 30.