Minister for Education and Youth, Hildegarde Naughton, has approved €338,681 in funding under the Youth Capital Funding Scheme 2025 to support 26 national youth organisations. The grants are aimed at upgrading ICT, improving accessibility, and enhancing furnishings to create inclusive spaces for young people, including those who are neurodivergent.
Announcing the funding ahead of Youth Night, Minister Naughton emphasized that the investment provides young people with the tools and spaces they need to thrive. By supporting digital engagement, safe meeting areas, and programmes tailored for diverse needs, the initiative ensures that youth organisations can deliver high-quality services that foster participation, learning, and community connection.
Grants under the scheme ranged from €1,000 to €35,000, with limits tied to each organisation’s core Youth Services Grant Scheme funding to ensure broad access, particularly for smaller organisations. The total funding allocation of €338,681, combined with €11,319 for new UBU youth work projects, brings their total capital support to €161,319. Eligible projects included ICT upgrades, accessibility improvements, outdoor space enhancements, essential renovations, and inclusive youth environments.
Several youth organisations are using the funding to improve their national operations through ICT upgrades. In Dublin, the Catholic Guides of Ireland and ECO-UNESCO are enhancing accessibility in their offices. Foróige in Mayo is completing essential works at a residential centre to maintain a safe environment for young people, volunteers, and staff. In Wicklow, the Irish Girl Guides are developing outdoor activity infrastructure to improve access for all members, including those with disabilities. In Cork, YMCA is restoring a heritage building used for various programmes, including a daily meal service for vulnerable youth, while improving security and creating a welcoming space.
Oíche na hÓige/Youth Night 2025, taking place on 21 November, sees over 400 youth clubs and services nationwide open their doors to the community. The initiative celebrates members, youth workers, and volunteers, while raising awareness of the value of youth work. Delivered in partnership with education and training boards, the National Youth Council of Ireland, and the wider youth work sector, Oíche na hÓige highlights the positive impact of youth services on both young people and the broader community.
