OVER €400,000 funding is available to arts groups which are now being urged to beat the deadline to apply.
Non-profit organisations across Donegal are eligible to apply for a share of the €430,000 funding.
Funding awards will be delivered to organisations that help to address local needs and strengthen communities across.
The funding from global philanthropic network called The Ireland Fund has four key priorities as part of its Heart of the Community funding allocation, including arts and culture.
Applications opened online from today (Monday, September 14) and remain open until October 2.
At least €430,000 will be distributed to arts and culture organisations and community organisations delivering arts-based programmes.
All applications must be submitted through The Ireland Funds website.
Heart of the Community Fund supports artists. Photo: Aengus McMahon.
A spokesperson said: “This grant round is being launched during The Ireland Funds’ 50th anniversary year, marking five decades of philanthropy, partnership and fostering greater opportunity.
“The Heart of the Community Fund is designed to deliver practical, flexible support to projects working at the heart of their communities.
“It enables them to respond to local needs, strengthen their capacity and extend the reach and impact of their work, creating a positive legacy.
“Grants of between €5,000 and €25,000 will be awarded through this open call grant round.
“Applications are invited from arts and culture organisations working to promote, preserve and develop all art forms, as well as community organisations seeking support for community-based arts programmes or projects.
“Arts and culture organisations may apply for core funding to support their ongoing activities and operations.”
Ireland Funds chief Caitriona Fottrell said: “The Ireland Funds is committed to expanding access to the arts, supporting creative practice and protecting Ireland’s cultural heritage.
“Across the island, arts organisations and community groups enrich lives, strengthen identity and bring people together while responding to local needs.
“Earlier in the year, some €858,000 in grants were awarded to organisations in 21 counties across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.
“These grants supported education, innovation, youth development, disability services, literacy, community resilience, and social inclusion.”
More information is available from the irelandfunds.org website.