The Creative Ireland Programme in Waterford recently launched the new Culture and Creativity Strategy 2023-2027. The strategy allows for the continuation of funding for projects that embed creativity in the community. The annual Creative Waterford Open Call is based on six priority areas for development. Agencies, communities, individual artists and others are encouraged to apply for funding to develop collaborative creative projects. The closing date is March 31st at 4 p.m., details are available at www.bit.ly/opencallwaterford2023

The Creative Ireland Programme was extended for a second five-year term to run from 2023. One of the pillars is “Creative Communities”, a local authority-led initiative which pioneers and supports local creative projects in areas such as arts, heritage, local history, STEAM and the creative industries. Previous projects in Waterford included the Designers and Makers Exhibition in Waterford Gallery of Art, community acting classes in Tallow, creative workshops at Pride festival and moss art in West Waterford relating to the sustainable development goals.

To celebrate the launch of another 5 years of Creative Waterford, this year there are two strands of grants. Applications can be made for grants up to €8,000 and a second strand of grants will be awarded for applications up to €20,000. A maximum of two grants will be given for the larger funding and these project proposals must show significant levels of community engagement and collaboration.

Please note that the details of events listed above are provided by the relevant Local Authorities.