Minister for Education and Youth Hildegarde Naughton has announced a major funding allocation of €338,681 under the Youth Capital Funding Scheme 2025, supporting 26 national youth organisations across Ireland. The announcement coincided with Youth Night / Oíche na hÓige 2025, a nationwide celebration of youth work.
Supporting Inclusive Youth Spaces
The scheme provides grants for ICT upgrades, accessibility improvements, and furnishings to create inclusive environments, including spaces designed to welcome neurodivergent young people. Funding ranged from €1,000 to €35,000, with ceilings based on each organisation’s core Youth Services Grant Scheme allocation to ensure broad access, particularly for smaller groups.
Minister Naughton said the investment is about “giving young people the spaces and tools they need to thrive,” highlighting the role of modern, accessible facilities in supporting digital engagement, safe meeting spaces, and diverse programmes.
Examples of Funded Projects
- Dublin: Catholic Guides of Ireland and ECO‑UNESCO will improve accessibility and youth spaces.
- Mayo: Foróige will complete essential works at a residential centre used by clubs and youth diversion projects.
- Wicklow: Irish Girl Guides will develop outdoor activity infrastructure at their national memorial cottage.
- Cork: YMCA will restore a heritage building used for youth programmes, including a daily meal service for vulnerable young people.
- National: Scouting Ireland received €35,000 to redevelop its website into a unified digital platform.
Other beneficiaries include BelongTo, Crosscare, Gaisce, Macra na Feirme, Youth Work Ireland, and SpunOut, with projects ranging from ICT upgrades to outdoor education facilities.
Additional Support for UBU Projects
A further €11,319 has been allocated to cover capital costs for 10 new UBU youth work projects, bringing their total capital funding to €161,319.
Youth Night 2025
Over 400 youth clubs and services nationwide opened their doors for Oíche na hÓige, showcasing the value of youth work to communities. Events celebrated young people, youth workers, and volunteers, while raising awareness of the role youth organisations play in fostering connection, learning, and inclusion.
Delivered in partnership with Education and Training Boards, the National Youth Council of Ireland, and the youth work sector, Youth Night highlighted the government’s commitment to strengthening youth services across the country.
Outlook
The funding boost underscores Ireland’s focus on modernising youth infrastructure and ensuring that every young person has the opportunity to participate fully in their community. By investing in ICT, accessibility, and inclusive spaces, the government aims to build a stronger foundation for youth engagement and empowerment nationwide.
Minister for Education and Youth Hildegarde Naughton Picture by Paul Faith – European Commission
