The Core Funding Scheme is currently open for applications. Closing date: Wednesday 12 November 2025 at 4 PM.
About the Core Funding Scheme
The Northern Ireland Community Relations Council's Core Funding Scheme provides support for organisations which are considered of strategic importance in promoting community relations work across the region.
The scheme contributes towards salary and organisational running costs.
If you require further assistance, please speak to a member of the Funding and Development team.
Key Principles of the Core Funding Scheme
1. The work must be intentional:
Regardless of the grant scheme, a programme must have a clear good relations purpose from the outset with deliberate and planned activities which directly address sectarianism.
2. It must address an identified good relations need:
All applications must be able to clearly demonstrate the good relations need they want to address and how they have identified this need.
Guidance Notes
For further information, and before you begin the application process, please refer to the Guidance Notes for the Core Funding Scheme.
Together: Building a United Community (T:BUC)
Applicants are required to outline the outcome in Together: Building a United Community to which the proposed project will contribute.
The Together: Building a United Community Strategy, published on 23 May 2013, reflects the Executive’s commitment to improving community relations and continuing the journey towards a more united and shared society.
Core Funded Groups
Each year, CRC provides a list of the groups and organisations it has funded through its Core funding scheme. You can find out more here:
View the Core Funded Groups for 2024-25.
Find out how the Londonderry Bands Forum - a Core Fund recipient - creates an inclusive learning experience based on cultural identity and music:
How to Apply – Video & PowerPoint Presentation
Find out how to apply for CRC's Core Funding Scheme by watching the video below, as well downloading the Core Funding Scheme PowerPoint presentation.
FAQs
We have compiled a list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) based on the most recent Information Session, which was held in October 2024. Please refer to these questions before you complete the Core Fund application form.
How to Apply
The Core Funding Scheme closes for applications Wednesday 12 November 2025 at 4 PM.