Core Grant Funding Scheme 2026-27

The Department of Health is inviting not-for-profit organisations to apply for funding

Not-for-profit, community, and voluntary sector organisations in Northern Ireland can now apply for the Core Grant Funding Scheme 2026-27, launched by the Department of Health, to support core running costs.

The Department of Health provides these grants to groups whose work supports key strategic and policy goals, including:

• public health, including reducing Health Inequalities
• supporting adults, including those with disabilities and vulnerabilities, to live an independent, healthy and inclusive life
• supporting children and young people, including those with disabilities and vulnerabilities, and their families
• improving mental health strategy
• adult and children with a disability
• cancer strategy for Northern Ireland

Eligibility criteria

To be eligible for funding, an organisation should:

• operate in Northern Ireland and directly benefit its population
• be independent, not for profit, and governed by appropriate rules
• demonstrate strong financial and governance systems
• meet legal requirements for employment, safeguarding and equality

What the funding covers

The following costs are eligible:

• up to 25% of a permanent staff member’s annual salary
• training for staff and volunteers
• running costs (eg, rent, utilities)
• equipment or minor capital items under £15,000
• volunteer expenses (eg, travel)
• evaluation and management costs

How to apply

If you meet the criteria, you can submit your application online.

Before applying, you should read the full guidelines on the Core Grant Funding Scheme 2026-27.

First published 28 October 2025