Minister of State for International Development and Diaspora, Neale Richmond TD, has officially launched the call for applications to the 2026 Civil Society Fund, which provides support for NGOs implementing development projects in countries eligible for Official Development Assistance. The Fund enables organizations to carry out initiatives in sectors such as education, health, human rights, and peacebuilding, helping vulnerable communities improve their lives and build sustainable futures.
Minister Richmond highlighted the crucial role of Irish NGOs in both humanitarian and development work, emphasizing their contributions to saving lives, advocating for human rights, and addressing global challenges including conflict, hunger, and climate change. He encouraged high-quality applications that can make a tangible difference for those most in need.
The Civil Society Fund primarily supports Irish NGOs for projects of up to five years, though a limited number of international NGOs working on human rights issues are also eligible to apply. Grants can reach a maximum of €800,000 per year, with the total fund allocation in 2025 reaching €7.8 million.
The 2026 call for proposals opened today, with eligibility forms due by 5pm on 19 September 2025. Eligible organizations will receive application forms by email, and the final submission deadline for completed applications is 5pm on 10 November 2025.