Youth Services Grant Scheme opens to new applicants

The Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth is inviting applications from organisations who work with young people to apply for funding under Youth Services Grant Scheme (YSGS). A total of up to €1.25million is being made available in grants to first-time applicants to the YSGS, with the term of the grant running from October 2024 to December 2025.

The YSGS was introduced in 1984 and is designed to provide funding to youth organisations providing universal youth work services to children and young people aged between 10 and 24. There are currently 30 organisations funded under the existing YSGS. Those organisations currently in receipt of funding are not included within the terms of this pilot scheme, which is specifically aimed at expanding the number of organisations supported under the YSGS. Organisations currently receiving funding under the YSGS will continue to use the existing application process into 2025.

Applications are invited from organisations which currently provide supports, clubs or activities to young people which support their social and personal development. Organisations must have a wide geographic coverage, providing services in at least three Education and Training Board areas. In addition, organisations that do not provide clubs or activities, but which do add significant value to the wider youth sector by supporting the work of other youth organisations, may also apply for funding under the scheme.

Further information on eligibility, the funding available and the application process can be found in the Youth Service Grant Scheme guidance note available here: Youth Services Grant Scheme (YSGS) Pilot 2024-2025 Queries may be addressed to YSGS@equality.gov.ie.

The YSGS will be administered by the Youth Affairs Unit of the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth.