The Core Funding Scheme is open for applications. Closing date for applications is Thursday 12 November 2026 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 fund impact report
CRC's Core Fund Impact Profiles document the work that groups supported through the Core Funding Scheme have undertaken during 2025-26.
Read the Core Fund Impact report 2025-26.
Core-funded recipient case study
Find out how Nerve Centre - a Core fund recipient - has worked with young people through a three-month engagement programme to develop an immersive installation project in a unique heritage space Belfast city.
How to apply – video and PowerPoint presentation
Find out how to apply for CRC's Core Funding Scheme by watching the video below.
You can also find out more about the application process by viewing the Core Funding Scheme - Info Session presentation 2027-28.
FAQs
We have compiled a list of frequently asked questions (FAQs). Please refer to these questions before you complete the Core Fund application form.
How to apply
The Core Funding Scheme is currently open for applications. It will close on on Thursday 12 November 2026 at 4 PM.