Shared Island Funding

Funding from the Shared Island Fund is allocated by the Government to various departments and public agencies to support specific projects that advance the Programme for Government’s priorities for the Shared Island initiative. These projects are developed in cooperation with counterparts in Northern Ireland and focus on practical cross-border collaboration in areas such as research, infrastructure, climate action, tourism, culture, and community development.

In some cases, individual departments may offer smaller funding opportunities or grant schemes under the wider Shared Island Initiative. These schemes are designed to harness the full potential of the Good Friday Agreement — enhancing cooperation, connection, and mutual understanding across the island, and engaging with all communities and traditions to build consensus around a shared future.

The merits of any potential new North/South projects are first assessed by the relevant government department or agency, which leads on the design, delivery, and oversight of the scheme. Once assessed and approved, these projects are implemented in partnership with appropriate stakeholders across both jurisdictions.

For more information on ongoing Shared Island projects, see here.

Information on schemes that are currently open for application:

Civic Society Fund

• Led by: Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

• Application deadline: Call for applications closes the 27th June 2025.

• Purpose: Supports civic society organisations developing cross-border projects that address shared social, environmental, and community challenges.

• Allocation to date: Almost €3 million awarded to 120 projects across areas such as climate action, social enterprise, and community cohesion.

• Who can apply: Non-profits, voluntary groups, and community-based organisations in both Ireland and Northern Ireland.

• More Info on how to apply: Civic Society Fund