New funding opportunities for Carlow artists and communities

CARLOW Co Council has announced details of new funding opportunities to support the development and presentation of creative and artistic projects across the county in 2026. Applications will be accepted from individual artists, musicians and creatives, arts collectives, community groups, youth groups and arts organisations.

Arts officer and Creative Ireland co-ordinator Aileen Nolan said: “Carlow Co Council is delighted to announce our funding opportunities for 2026, highlighting the value and the importance of supporting the arts across our communities. Access and inclusion are important to us, which reflects the broad ranges of representation and creative expression from across Co Carlow and we now look forward to receiving creative ideas and ambitious applications. All funding applications have been simplified following feedback from our artists and communities and online submissions are now open and welcome.” 

The arts office supports creative and artistic practices and processes and artists in a variety of ways annually. Individual artists, musicians, community/voluntary groups, arts organisations and young persons’ groups may consider applying for the grants and award opportunities to support their artistic projects.

There’s a number of grant schemes available for musicians, visual artists, community groups and writers, which will need to be applied for before the middle of February.

Application forms and information about each of the opportunities is available at https://consult.carlow.ie/en/applications and will remain open until 13 February.

Artists and creatives are strongly encouraged to apply early to avoid last-minute pressure.