IRFU Inclusive Facilities Grant Scheme

A new IRFU funded scheme has been launched to support clubs in making their facilities more inclusive for the growing needs of their community.

Clubs may now apply for part funding of facilities development through the IRFU Inclusive Facilities Grant Scheme up to a maximum grant of €100,000.

The scheme is live and applications are being accepted on an ongoing basis.

An IRFU Inclusive Facilities Upgrade Guide has been produced to assist clubs in the project management of works. There is also a guide for clubs on how to apply for the grant itself.

Inclusive-Facilities-Upgrade-Guide 2024

IRFU Inclusive Facilities Terms and Conditions

IRFU Inclusive Clubs Grant Application Form (Updated October 2024)

Financial Template for Inclusive Facilities Grant 2024

Click Here To Make An Expression Of Interest Submission To The IRFU Inclusive Facilities Grant Scheme

Click Here To View IRFU Briefing Webinar On YouTube

Inclusivity is a core value of the IRFU Spirit Of Rugby Charter, underpinned by the belief that rugby can be a sport of choice for all.

Speaking about the funding, Yvonne Comer of the IRFU Inclusive Facilities Working Group said:

“This is a milestone initiative for Irish Rugby.”

“It’s about acknowledging the importance of inclusivity in a sustainable future for Irish Rugby. We’re backing our clubs to actively welcome more diverse membership by incentivising development with additional funding.

“Even relatively simple upgrades can have a significant impact on what the rugby experience is like for new and prospective members. In launching this scheme, we want to see clubs having those conversations and making those plans that can lead to real change.”

The scheme is funded by proceeds of lands at Newlands, Co. Dublin, as per the commitment that a portion of proceeds from the sale would be provided for new club and playing facilities development programmes.

Expression Of Interest:

The IRFU are currently inviting expressions of interest in the scheme. The purpose is to:

• Allow clubs to register their interest in availing of funds through the scheme.
• Help clubs to understand how far along they might be in their planning process.
• To gather information for the IRFU on the number of clubs interested in making a grant application under the scheme and the likely timing of their project and grant drawdown.

EOI forms must be submitted in an official capacity by a club committee/executive.

Expression Of Interest Submission Link: https://bit.ly/IRFU-EOI-GRANT

Briefing Webinar Running Order:

• Introduction – Greg Barrett (IRFU Senior Vice President)
• Key Considerations – Yvonne Comer (IRFU Inclusive Facilities Working Group)
• IRFU Inclusive Facilities Grant Scheme Overview (David Keane, IRFU)
• Making The Most Of Public Funding – Garrett Tubridy (IRFU), Matthew Holmes (Ulster Rugby)
• What Good Looks Like: Working Examples of Inclusive Facilities – Ross O’Donoghue (IRFU)
• Frequently Asked Questions