Grants and Funding

ARDS AND NORTH DOWN SPORTS FORUM GRANTS

Please see the Sports Forum Grants available to Sports Forum members for 2025/2026.

The various funding streams available include the following:

• Anniversary - Application/Guidelines - Opening soon.
• Club Travel and Accommodation - Application/Guidelines - Opening soon.
• Coach Education - Application/Guidelines - Grant value up to £500.
• Equipment - Application/Guidelines - Opening soon.
• Event - Application/Guidelines - Opening soon.
• Goldcard - Application/Guidelines - Access to Council Leisure facilities at reduced rates.
• Individual Travel and Accommodation - Application/Guidelines - Grant value up to £500.
• Schools/Sports Clubs Pathway - Application/Guidelines - Grant value up to £500.
• Seeding - Application/Guidelines

Sports Forum Grants are only available to Sports Forum members who have been affiliated for a minimum of three months prior to application. £70,000 has been allocated for 2025/2026 financial year, application forms and guidance notes for each grant are available:

• By clicking on the links above.
• By emailing sportsdevelopment@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk
• By contacting Sports Development on 0300 013 3333 ext.40338

The Sports Development Capital Grant Programme provides financial assistance to eligible Sports Clubs for the delivery of capital projects and the purchase of capital equipment. ‘Capital Expenditure’ is defined as expenditure for purchase, improvement, restoration and construction of an asset directly related to the applicant organisation. It should have ‘physical substance’ i.e. be a tangible asset that can be listed on an asset register or a company’s balance sheet (e.g. equipment, buildings) for use in the delivery of an organisation’s activities; and it should have a useful life of more than one year. 

The Council has set aside £70,000 for 2025/26 financial year and can award up to 60% of eligible capital costs with a maximum award of £6,000 in respect of any one project. Following grant assessment and allocations and if there is funding remaining, Council may consider awarding grants of more than £6,000 should the need be identified and in merit order.

Application Process
Guidance Notes 2025-26

Please submit forms to Sportsdevelopment@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk