Ards and North Down Borough Council Open Two Major Sports Funding Programmes for 2026/2027

Ards and North Down Borough Council Open Two Major Sports Funding Programmes for 2026/2027

Ards and North Down Borough Council is pleased to announce the opening of two grant programmes designed to support the development of sport across the Borough. A total of £180,000 in funding is now available to assist local sports clubs and athletes during the 2026/2027 financial year.

Sports Forum Grant Programme

The Sports Forum Grant Programme 2026/2027 is officially open for applications. A total of £90,000 is available to support eligible sports clubs and individual athletes throughout Ards and North Down.

The programme offers financial assistance across eight grant categories, each aimed at fostering club development, supporting athlete progression and enhancing sporting opportunities across the Borough.
Closing date for applications is Tuesday 23 February 2027 at 12 noon.

Sports Development Capital Grant Programme

The Sports Development Capital Grant Programme is also open for applications, offering financial assistance to eligible sports clubs for the delivery of capital projects to be completed before Monday 1 March 2027.

For 2026/2027, the Council has allocated £90,000 to the programme. Clubs can apply for up to 60% of eligible capital costs, with a maximum award of £6,000 per project.
Closing date for applications is Monday 1 June 2026, 12 noon. 

For more information on both -
Online Grants and Funding | AND Leisure
Email sportsdevelopment@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk
Phone - 0300 013 3333 (ext. 40327)

The Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Gillian McCollum said:

"Supporting sport at every level is an investment in the health, wellbeing and vibrancy of our Borough. These funding programmes play an important role in helping our clubs to grow, improving local facilities and enabling athletes to reach their full potential. I encourage all eligible clubs and individuals to explore the opportunities available and to apply. Together, we can continue to strengthen sport in Ards and North Down and ensure it continues to thrive."