Core Grant funding for 2026/27 announced

Date published: 2 March 2026

This is a marked increase from the 26 organisations which were awarded funding in 2025/2026. 

The increase was made possible by a restructuring of the scheme to ensure that the £1.8m available could be spread further to support a greater number of eligible organisations. 

Health Minister Mike Nesbitt said: 

“I am delighted that more than 70 community and voluntary sector groups have progressed to Stage 2 of the Core Grant funding process. Subject to financial viability checks, these organisations together will receive £1.8m in funding to support them with their core costs. That is more than double the number supported in 2025/2026. 

“While the financial pressures facing my Department meant I was unable to devote more funding to the scheme, I was determined to ensure a larger number of C&V bodies could benefit from it, particularly those smaller organisations which struggle the most to cover their costs. 

“With 247 applicants, however, I acknowledge that there will still be many commendable groups who will be disappointed by the outcome. I deeply value the work of all organisations within the community and voluntary sector as they make a vital contribution in communities right across Northern Ireland. 

“In the coming weeks, my officials will begin contacting those applicants who have been unsuccessful to offer feedback, which it is hoped will be of assistance in applying for future funding rounds. At this stage, it is anticipated that another open call for applications will be issued this Autumn, for funding from April 2027.”

Under the 2026/2027 scheme, eligible organisations were invited to apply to one of four policy funds, each totalling £450,000. The policy funds were:

• Public health, including reducing health inequalities;
• Supporting adults, including those with disabilities, to live independent, healthy and inclusive lives;
• Supporting children and young people, including those with disabilities and vulnerabilities, and their families;
• Improving the mental health and wellbeing of the population.

 Following the completion of Stage 1 of the assessment process, 70 organisations scored highly enough to be funded in full and six will receive partial funding, subject to final financial checks. 

Michelle Bolton, Chief Executive of Belfast-based Engage with Age, said: 

“We are absolutely delighted to receive this news about our Core Grant funding application. As a small charity, Engage with Age works to reduce social isolation and loneliness among older people in Belfast.

"This investment in our work and in the wellbeing of the older people we serve is invaluable.”

Caroline Temple, Manager of Youthlife in Derry/Londonderry, said: 

“Youthlife is delighted with this news. Core Grant funding will enable us to continue providing vital counselling services for children and young people aged five to 25 who have experienced bereavement, separation, or the loss of a significant person.”