Second round of funding for Longford Town Night-Time Economy grant open

Longford County Council has announced details of a second round of funding under the Longford Town Night-Time Economy grant scheme which is designed to foster a vibrant and diverse night-time culture. Funding under this grant initiative will open on Monday, 28 July with a closing date of Friday, August 15.

Longford County Council is seeking proposals from local businesses, community groups, event organisers, collaborators, and individuals to develop projects that will support the growth and diversity of the night-time economy in Longford Town. This fund will support applicants who wish to try new and exciting concepts after 6pm between Sunday and Thursday that can support the diversification of the night-time economy. This second round of funding will support events that take place between Sunday, September 7 and Sunday, November 23. If you have been a successful recipient of funding under Call 1, your proposal for Call 2 must be new and distinct from any previous applications. 

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Longford Town is one of nine pilot towns nationwide actively enhancing Ireland's night-time economy, and Longford County Council is committed to building on the town's after-6 p.m. offerings. 

A key action under the Longford Town Night-Time Economy Action Plan is the establishment of a grant funding scheme to support night-time activities and events. The purpose of this funding scheme is to encourage collaboration and facilitate a greater variety of offerings and experiences at night for residents, workers, and visitors.

Funding under Call 2 is being awarded under the following distinct categories. 

• Category A: A business, community, tourism, cultural, or heritage organisation. 
• Category B: Unlicensed premises – cafés 
• Category C: An individual artist, band, producer, or promoter. 
• Category D: Sporting, Recreational, Youth & Age Friendly groups

Speaking in relation to this initiative, Karen Reilly, the designated Night-Time Economy Advisor said, “This is a great opportunity to enhance night-time offerings in Longford Town. The types of events we envisage and encourage are live performances from local bands to intimate acoustic and DJ sets, spoken word and poetry, comedy, book clubs, theatre, film, live podcasts, storytelling, classes, wellbeing initiatives, light shows and historical themed events for example. We also encourage events that appeal to younger people, creating a welcoming and inclusive space for all.”

Longford County Council Head of Enterprise Michael Nevin said, “We encourage local businesses, community groups, event organisers, collaborators, and individuals in Longford Town to apply for funding under Call 2 of this Night-Time Economy grant scheme. This is an exciting opportunity to expand their evening options which will deliver an enhanced experience for residents, workers, and visitors alike. We want to create a welcoming destination where work, culture and community connect and thrive.”

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Application forms are available to download from the Night Time Economy section of Longford County Council website here: Night-Time Economy Grant Call 2 

Completed applications must be submitted by email to kreilly@longfordcoco.ie with the subject title NTE Grant Scheme Call 2 before the deadline of 4pm on Friday, August 15.