Arts funding to support older people's wellbeing
Grants for arts projects supporting older people
Organisations in Northern Ireland can now apply for funding from the National Lottery Arts and Older People Programme, managed by the Arts Council of Northern Ireland.
The programme aims to:
- challenge perceptions of older age
- give older people a stronger voice
- tackle isolation and loneliness
- promote positive mental health through involvement in the arts
Since 2010, the programme has awarded over £2 million in funding to over 272 projects across the region.
This latest round of the programme invites applications for grants up to £10,000 to deliver arts projects benefiting older people.
Who can apply
Eligible applicants include constituted community and voluntary groups working locally with older people, as well as arts organisations, local authorities, and non-governmental organisations that can demonstrate partnership working. Individuals and sole traders, and certain other organisations, are not eligible.
See full eligibility criteria on the Arts Council website.
How to apply
You must apply online using the Arts Council NI's new grants portal. If you haven't used the portal before, you will need to make a new account. Find guidance on how to create a new application account.
Applications close at midday on 22 October 2026.
For full guidance and to apply, see: National Lottery Arts and Older People Programme.
First published 11 September 2026