Ards and North Down Borough Council's Sports Forum Grants Now Open

Sports clubs and aspiring athletes in Ards and North Down are being invited to apply for a Sports Forum Grant through Ards and North Down Borough Council.

A total of £45,000 has been set aside to help the Borough's affiliated clubs deliver quality sport in our area, while local athletes can also apply for funding to help ease the financial burden of travel and accommodation. They can also take advantage of a Goldcard which allows access to leisure facilities at reduced rates.

Clubs and individuals can apply for multiple grants until they reach their yearly (April 2024 to March 2025) limits, provided they qualify under the guidance notes. 

Rachel Nixon is a Sports Forum working group member and is also a member of both Donaghadee Sailing club and Ballyholme Yacht Club. Rachel said:

"Being part of the Ards and North Down Sports Forum working group is so exciting - seeing the best of all sports within the Borough and the amazing standard so many of our Clubs are functioning at.  Confirmation from the Council on the new budget for 2024-5 is just brilliant and will continue to allow us to support our athletes and clubs across a huge variety of sports.  

"The grant scheme also facilitates and helps new Clubs get started up in the Borough.  I would encourage all Sports Clubs in the Borough to connect with the Sports Forum and look at what opportunities are available.  Whether it be developing your coaches or supporting your athletes at national and international level there are plenty of options."

 Grants include: 

·        Anniversary: Grant value up to £750.

·        Coaching: Grant value up to £500.

·        Equipment: Grant value up to £1000.

·        Events: Grant value up to £1000.

·        Goldcard: Access to Council Leisure facilities at reduced rates.

·        Seeding: Grant value up to £250.

·        Club Travel: Grant value up to £500.

·        Individual Travel and Accommodation: Grant value up to £500.

·        Schools Clubs Pathway: Grant value up to £500.

The Chairman of Ards and North Down Sports Forum, Councillor Joe Boyle said:

"Enabling people to take part in sport is one of the key priorities for Ards and North Down Borough Council. We strive to ensure our local sports scene continues to develop through the Ards and North Down Sports Forum. It is through this Forum that local clubs and athletes have been provided with the opportunity to apply for grant funding that will support our sports clubs and athletes while also aiding sport development in our area."

For more information, including application forms and guidance notes, email sportsdevelopment@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk or visit leisureardsandnorthdown.com/sports-development/funding for all information.