Council invests more than £1.27M in community initiatives
Communities, voluntary organisations, sports clubs and cultural groups across Mid Ulster are set to benefit from a major investment package of more than £1,270,000 through Mid Ulster District Council’s 2026/27 Grant Aid Programme.
The funding will support 885 successful applications from across the district, helping organisations deliver projects and services that strengthen communities, improve wellbeing, enhance local facilities, celebrate culture and heritage, and encourage participation in
sport and community life.
The Council’s Grant Aid Programme demonstrates a continued commitment to investing in grassroots organisations that play a vital role in the social, cultural and economic fabric of Mid Ulster.
Welcoming the investment, Chair of Mid Ulster District Council, Councillor Frances Burton said:
Our community and voluntary sector is at the heart of Mid Ulster. These organisations provide essential services, create opportunities for people of all ages, strengthen community connections and help make our district a vibrant and inclusive place to live. Through this significant investment, Council is proud to support the outstanding work being carried out every day by local groups and volunteers across our towns, villages and rural communities. This funding will help organisations continue to deliver important programmes, improve facilities, promote health and wellbeing, celebrate culture and heritage, and create opportunities for greater participation and inclusion throughout Mid Ulster.
Among the largest allocations announced were:
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£634,052 through the Community Development Grants Programme supporting hundreds of local groups and organisations delivering activities focused on community engagement, inclusion, wellbeing, heritage and youth development.
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£200,000 awarded through the Community Infrastructure Grant scheme to major capital projects including community gym facilities, sports and wellbeing centres, and cultural redevelopment projects the length and breadth of the district including Slaughtneil, Magherafelt, Killeeshil and Fivemiletown.
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£250,000 invested in sports pitch infrastructure projects across the district, supporting improved community sports facilities in areas including Kildress, Clonoe, Magherafelt, Ballymaguigan and Greenlough.
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More than £100,000 allocated to strategic events that attract visitors, celebrate local identity and boost town and village economies.
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Over £30,000 supporting Irish language initiatives and programmes promoting cultural participation and inclusion.
The funding package reflects the breadth and diversity of community activity across Mid Ulster, with support reaching youth organisations, sports clubs, senior citizens groups, arts organisations, community associations, cultural groups, health and wellbeing initiatives, environmental projects and volunteer-led organisations.
The Council’s Grant Aid Programme continues to provide an important source of support for local organisations, helping communities build resilience, encourage volunteering and create opportunities for people to connect and thrive.
For more information on Mid Ulster District Council’s community funding programmes visit: www.midulstercouncil.org/grants.