Seán Canney TD, Minister of State for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports and Leader in Cabinet of the Independent Ministers, has welcomed the announcement of €27.8 million in Government funding for 92 national community and voluntary organisations under the new Scheme to Support National Organisations (SSNO) 2026-2029.

The funding will provide multi-annual core funding to organisations working across a wide range of sectors including disability, health, homelessness, older people, children and young people, equality and social inclusion.

The scheme will provide almost €8 million annually over the next three and a half years, representing an increase of almost €1 million per year compared to the previous funding round. It will also support more organisations, with 92 groups receiving funding compared to 82 under the previous scheme.

Welcoming the announcement, Minister Canney said the funding recognises the vital role community and voluntary organisations play in supporting people and strengthening communities throughout Ireland.

“Community and voluntary organisations do incredible work in every county. They support people at all stages of life and are often the first place people turn when they need help, advice or simply someone to listen.

“The reality is that many of these organisations spend a huge amount of time trying to secure funding so they can keep services going. Providing funding over a number of years gives them much-needed certainty and allows them to focus on what they do best – supporting people and communities.

“I’m pleased to see both the level of investment and the increase in the number of organisations being supported. This funding will help ensure important services can continue to be delivered across the country in the years ahead.”

The Scheme to Support National Organisations was first established in 2008 and provides funding towards the core operating costs of national community and voluntary organisations, including staffing and organisational development. The new funding round will support 92 organisations until the end of 2029.