Dec 2, 2025
Clann Credo Named Specialist Lender of the Year at the FS Awards 2025
Congratulations to our Partners Clann Credo who recently celebrated recognition of their work in social finance.
Clann Credo – Community Loan Finance has been recognised as Specialist Lender of the Year at the 2025 Business & Finance Media Group FS Awards, sponsored by Centralis Group.
The award highlights the growing importance of social finance in supporting local ambition, particularly within community and sporting organisations across Ireland. For almost three decades, Clann Credo has backed volunteer-led projects that strengthen participation, inclusion, and local resilience — from pitch redevelopments and community centres to youth facilities and rescue services.
Speaking after the announcement, Mary Lawlor, CEO of Clann Credo, said:
“This award is a real milestone for our small but mighty team — and for the communities, social enterprises, and organisations we’re privileged to support across Ireland. It recognises that innovation in finance is as much about people as it is about products. We’re incredibly proud of our team, and grateful to all those community leaders and volunteers who trust us to stand with them as they deliver positive change.”
Clann Credo’s model is built on the belief that finance should be accessible, fair, and focused on impact. Today, the organisation is working with over 700 active community projects nationwide, helping groups turn ideas into action through flexible loan options tailored to how community development actually works.
The award also places a spotlight on the vital role that community finance plays in Ireland’s sporting landscape. Many clubs, facilities, and sports organisations rely on a mix of grant aid and social finance to move projects forward — and Clann Credo continues to play a key role in ensuring those projects succeed.
As Mary Lawlor added:
“This achievement isn’t just about Clann Credo — it belongs to every community group and volunteer whose ambition drives the work we do. We look forward to continuing to invest in communities, and in the belief that doing good and doing business can go hand in hand.”
For sports organisations seeking guidance or support on financing facilities or community-led projects, Clann Credo remains ready to help — always with people, impact, and local ambition at the centre.
Nov 25, 2025
The Federation was delighted to co-host a webinar for members with our Partners 2into3 on the practical steps members can take to make their CSFF grant applications more robust. Expert insights were shared by Patricia Keenan the Director of Funding Services at 2into3. She has worked for local authorities, government departments and social enterprises at a senior level before embarking on consulting in 2005. She has a track record of delivering 50+ webinars and in-person events to over 5,000 attendees and has directly supported more than 80 CSFF grant applications across a wide range of sports with a 93% success rate overall. The event proved very popular with member and there was excellent engagement.
The Community Sport Facilities Fund is the primary vehicle for Government support for the development of sports and physical recreation facilities and the purchase of non-personal sports equipment throughout the country.
- The Community Sport Facilities Fund (CSFF), formerly the Sports Capital and Equipment Programme, has allocated over €1.4 billion to almost 19,000 projects since 1998.
- The programme prioritises participation, accessibility, and sustainability, with targets including 60% national participation in sport by 2027.
Being Grant Ready for CSFF – tell the story!
1.Who are the people that will benefit from this project?
2.What would you like to fund? Ambition…
3.Why should you get this over another application?
Once you answer these then think about….
I.Where is the project
II.How much will your ambition cost? How much funding would you like to get from the Community Sport Facilities Fund? How will you match this?
III.When will you complete the work?
Members can look back at the full webinar. To request the link and slideshow presentation, please email info@irishsport.ie
Nov 20, 2025
- Published on: 19 November 2025
- Last updated on: 19 November 2025
The Department of Culture, Communications and Sport has today published its Sectoral Plan under the National Development Plan (NDP) Review identifying capital projects and programmes which will be progressed over the period 2026 – 2030. A review of the National Development Plan was carried out across Government in 2025. On foot of this process, a revised National Development Plan was published in July. This plan recognises that to invest in infrastructure and address the infrastructure deficit is the best way to safeguard our economy, drive growth and opportunity, protect jobs, increase competitiveness and ensure prosperity for our people and communities. This is particularly so at a time of growing international uncertainty.
In line with the Programme for Government, a review of the NDP was completed in July this year. As part of that review, €2.22 billion was allocated for capital investment to the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport for the period 2026 – 2030.
Nov 11, 2025
Media Release
Ireland Women’s International Footballer, Amber Barrett Kicks Off the 2025 Volunteers in Sport Awards with the Federation of Irish Sport
- Supported by the Sport Ireland National Network of 29 Local Sports Partnerships
- Nominations open from 11th November – 15th December 2025
- New Club/Community Award Announced
- To nominate a volunteer visit volunteersinsport.ie
Tuesday 11th November 2025; Ireland Women’s International Footballer, Amber Barrett was on hand to lend her voice to the launch of the 2025 Volunteers in Sport Awards, a national celebration of the extraordinary individuals who contribute to the vibrant fabric of Irish sports.
Hosted by the Federation of Irish Sport and supported by the Sport Ireland National Network of 29 Local Sports Partnerships these prestigious awards recognise the selfless volunteers who dedicate their time, skills, and passion to support sports clubs and community organisations across Ireland.
The 2025 Volunteers in Sport Awards will bring together individuals from all 32 counties to celebrate their commitment to fostering participation and ensuring that sport is accessible to all. Their contributions not only inspire communities but also enable clubs and organisations to thrive, supporting social cohesion and well-being across Ireland. Without their dedication, many sporting opportunities simply would not exist.
A new addition to the 2025 awards is the launch of a brand-new award – the Club/Community Sport Organisation Award. This award recognises a volunteer led sports club, community organisation, or group that has made an outstanding contribution to promoting sport, physical activity, and community well-being. It celebrates excellence in inclusion, participation, leadership, and positive impact through sport.
In every corner of the country, from city centres and suburbs to rural villages, over 460,000 volunteers work tirelessly each week to bring sport and physical activity to life for people of all ages*. Over 250,000 coaches volunteer 1 million hours a week to Irish Sport**. The impact of their work is profound, providing multi-generational opportunities to engage in sport, build communities, and promote healthy lifestyles. The economic value of their contribution is estimated to be worth €1.5bn to the Irish economy***.
There are also two closed categories of Outstanding Achievement Award and the addition of a Lifetime Achievement Award. These prestigious awards are not open for public nomination. Recipients are selected by the Judging Panel from entries received from the County Volunteers, based on outstanding merit, impact, or long-term contribution.
Ambassador for the 2025 Awards Ireland Women’s International Footballer, Amber Barrett, who has scored nine goals in 55 senior games, said: “Volunteers are the unsung heroes of sport in Ireland. They are the ones who connect clubs with communities, who help kids to chase their dreams and fulfil their potential, who bring joy to families and who make a lasting difference in people’s lives. It’s fantastic to have these Awards to recognise those who make such a positive impact as Irish sport simply would not be the same without our volunteers.”
“The goodwill and work of volunteers cannot be taken for granted,” said Mary O’Connor CEO Federation of Irish Sport. “These awards are our chance to say thank you and in acknowledging the incredible efforts volunteers make, ensure that we continue to encourage more people to get involved and safeguard the future of sport in the country.”
A National Network of Support
Supporting the awards is the National Network of 29 Local Sports Partnerships. Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown Sports Partnership Coordinator, Shane McArdle, remarked: “This is the third year that the National Network of 29 Local Sports Partnerships have come together to enthusiastically support the Federation of Irish Sports in hosting these important awards. In our work to promote participation all across the country, we see the immense value of volunteers in every club and across every sport. These awards provide a great opportunity for these clubs to recognise and celebrate these volunteers who make a difference in so many people’s lives. We encourage all clubs to nominate their invaluable champions.”
Nominations are now open, and the awards celebration will take place at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Blanchardstown in Dublin on 26th February 2026.
To submit a nomination, visit www.volunteersinsport.ie
*Sport Ireland – Irish Sports Monitor 2023
** Sport Ireland – Spotlight on Coaching Report 2024
*** Sport Ireland – Economic Value of Sport Report 2021
ENDS
For more information Contact:
Clare Louise O’Donoghue, Head of Commercial & Marketing, Federation of Irish Sport
Mobile: 086 0437887, Email: clarelouise.odonoghue@irishsport.ie
Oct 8, 2025
Press Release
For Immediate Release
8 October 2025
Federation of Irish Sport Welcomes Positive Commitments to Sport in Budget 2026
The Federation of Irish Sport has welcomed the commitments announced in Budget 2026 towards the ongoing development of sport and physical activity across Ireland.
The increased investment in core funding, high-performance programmes, and sports facility development represents a clear and positive signal of Ireland’s ambition to support and nurture sporting talent at every level — from grassroots community clubs to elite international competition.
Speaking following the Budget announcement, Federation CEO Mary O’Connor said:
“This Budget sends a strong message that sport, and physical activity remain a national priority. These targeted investments will allow the sector to build on momentum, while continuing to deliver opportunities for participation, inclusion, and excellence throughout Ireland.”
“These investments are not just numbers on a page. They represent opportunities — for children to join their first team, for athletes to chase international dreams, and for communities to thrive through sport. We look forward to working together to ensure every euro invested strengthens the foundations of Irish sport for generations to come.”
The Federation extends its sincere thanks to Minister Patrick O’Donovan and Minister of State Charlie McConalogue for their leadership, ongoing support, and commitment to recognising the unique role of sport and physical activity in Irish society.
“The Ministers’ support, both in public advocacy and in yesterday’s funding allocations, underscores the Government’s understanding that sport is not just about medals and trophies — it’s about wellbeing, community building, social cohesion, and economic contribution,” Mary O’Connor added.
Looking ahead, the Federation expressed its commitment to working closely with the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport, Sport Ireland, National Governing Bodies, Local Sports Partnerships, and all funded organisations to ensure that this investment delivers real, measurable impact.
ENDS
For interview requests, please contact:
Michelle McCarthy
Operations Manager Federation of Irish Sport
email: michelle.mccarthy@irishsport.ie , mobile: 0860684925, website: www.irishsport.ie
Notes to Editors:
Key Investments Announced in Budget 2026 Include:
- €10.8 million in additional current funding for Sport Ireland, including:
- €2 million in increased core funding for National Governing Bodies of Sport and Local Sports Partnerships
- €500,000 to support Sport Ireland’s work on sports legacy programmes and events
- €1.5 million increase in High Performance funding, as part of preparations for Los Angeles 2028, in line with Programme for Government commitments
- €500,000 investment in a grassroots golf participation programme, forming part of the legacy strategy for major international golf events, including the Ryder Cup.
- National Velodrome and Badminton Centre to commence construction.
- Large-Scale Sport Infrastructure Fund (LSSIF) annual allocation increased by €18.7m, to support the development of world-class sports facilities nationwide.
- Targeted funding for specific sports and athlete support, including:
- GAA:
- €250,000 in enhanced core funding
- Just under €750,000 to expand hurling in non-traditional areas.
- €1.6 million in additional support for inter-county players
- IRFU:
- €250,000 in enhanced core funding
- €500,000 to support the development of high-performance pathways for women rugby players.
- FAI:
- €3 million to support the development of League of Ireland football academies.
About the Federation of Irish Sport
The Federation of Irish Sport was established in April 2002 by Ireland’s national sporting organisations to provide leadership, coordination, and advocacy on key issues, representing their interests to the government and relevant agencies. Now in its 23rd year, the Federation represents over 110 National Governing Bodies (NGBs) and Local Sports Partnerships (LSPs), representing more than 13,000 sports clubs across Ireland.
The Federation’s mission is to empower its members to maximise the impact of sport, recreation, and physical activity for the benefit of society. Sport is not only essential for Ireland’s health and wellbeing but also contributes significantly to the economy, education, tourism, and the nation’s global reputation.
Sep 2, 2025
The Federation of Irish Sport is calling for:
- A 10% Compound Annual Increase in Core Funding Over Next 3 Years
- Commitment To Research and Report on the Impact of an Additional 1% Betting Levy for Sport
The Federation of Irish Sport, the voice of Irish sport today called for a decisive Budget 2026 commitment from Government to secure the role of sport in Ireland as a driver of health, community, and economic growth.
In its 2026 Pre-Budget submission, the Federation of set out the case for sustainable investment to safeguard and grow the sector. The primary Ask of Government is for a 10% Compound Increase in Core Funding from 2025-2028. The National Governing Bodies (NGBs) and Local Sports Partnerships (LSPs) are the engines of citizens’ engagement with and continued participation in sport. A multi-annual increase in Core Funding will provide stability and financial clarity for NGBs and LSPs to plan for long term development. This will have a direct impact on improving public health and wellbeing and foster social inclusion, while also driving economic growth and increased tax revenues.
The second key Ask for Sport in Budget 2026 is for a government commitment to research and publish a report on an additional 1% betting levy for sport. The creation of an additional 1% levy would yield approximately €40-50 million extra per annum for sports. The Federation is calling on Government to undertake a formal assessment of the proposed additional 1% levy, with a view to designating the additional revenue specifically for participation and community sport.
Click
here for the full submission.
Mary O’Connor, CEO of the Federation of Irish Sport said: “The Government has the power to make a meaningful impact on the sports sector in Ireland by recognising Sport’s social, health, and economic value and to prioritise core funding for long term impact. Return on investment is clear: for every €100 invested in sport the return is €209. While investment by Government in Sport and Physical Activity has increased significantly over the lifetime of the National Sports Policy, it is time for sport funding in Ireland to be in line with our European counterparts and match the EU average. With the current National Sports Policy in its final two years, we want Government to recognise Sport as a public good within national policy going forwards. Backing sport means backing communities all over the country.”
Who we represent:
