Latest phase of Buncrana’s Night-Time Economy Grant Scheme open for applications

Donegal County Council has launched Phase Three of Buncrana’s Night-Time Economy Grant Scheme, with a specific focus on events and festivals.

This phase invites businesses, community groups, artists, musicians, performers, and individuals to develop imaginative evening events that make Buncrana an even more vibrant and welcoming place after dark.

As one of only nine towns and cities selected nationally to take part in the Night-Time Economy pilot, Buncrana continues to lead the way in how rural towns can reimagine their public spaces and evening activities.

Phase Three is designed to support a diverse programme of events and festivals that enhance the town’s cultural life, support the local economy, and encourage people of all ages to enjoy Buncrana by night.

There are two tiers of funding available under this phase: Tier 1: grants of up to €500 for smaller-scale events; Tier 2: grants from €500 to €4,000 for larger festivals and events.

John G. McLaughlin, Chief Executive of Donegal County Council, said: “This initiative shows what’s possible when communities come together with creativity and vision. The Night-Time Economy pilot is not only revitalising Buncrana’s evenings, but it’s setting a national example for how smaller towns can grow in a way that’s inclusive, safe and sustainable.”

“Donegal County Council is proud to lead and support this work, and we look forward to seeing what Phase Three will inspire in terms of new events and festivals.”

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Sophie Gallagher, Night-Time Economy Advisor for Buncrana, said Buncrana’s night-time scene is going from strength to strength, and that’s thanks to the incredible people who are creating and delivering events in Buncrana after 6pm.

“Their creativity, commitment, and hard work are helping the town truly come alive at night-time. Through this grant scheme, we will continue to champion and support those leading the way with fresh ideas and ambitious evening events in Buncrana. Together, we’re setting a standard for what a vibrant, welcoming place Buncrana by night can be,” she said.

Previous phases of the scheme attracted a wide range of applications spanning the arts, hospitality, youth and community sectors. Phase Three aims to build on this momentum, unlocking even more ambitious event ideas and partnerships from across the local area.

Whether you’re a hospitality business with a bold new event concept, a festival organiser, a youth group with a creative vision, or an artist ready to step into the spotlight, this is your chance to help shape the future of ‘Buncrana by Night’.

Events must take place between April and October 2026 and the closing date for applications is Friday, 27 March 2026 at 12 noon. Application forms can be found at: www.donegalcoco.ie/nte.

Interested parties can also contact Sophie Gallagher, Night-Time Economy Advisor, for an application pack via email at sophiegallagher@donegalcoco.ie.