In total the local authority received applications for €818,000 in arts grant support. In total, €417,000 was allocated to 38 professional arts bodies, with remaining monies allocated to 34 community, volunteer or amateur arts organisations in Galway. Six of the unsuccessful applicants were directed to other funding pathways.
Grant decisions were made on artistic merits, but also the economic benefit of culture and arts to communities, including mental health outcomes and inclusion.
“I am delighted that we were able to increase funding following the very hard decisions made earlier in the year with Local Property Tax and Commercial Rates increases,” said City Councillor Níall McNelis who chairs the city’s Tourism and Arts committee. “The benefits to the city can be shown as Cuirt celebrates its 20-year anniversary, and Druid 50 years of performing. Both showcase our city nationally and worldwide,” he said.
There were 72 valid applications from non-profit organisations for 2025, of which 58 were recommended funding. Some applicants were directed to other sources of funding, such as Creative Ireland or other City Council grants.
