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Accounting grants for sporting bodies in Ireland are a vital support for clubs, federations, and non-profits. They help these organisations grow sustainably and meet compliance standards. For many organisations, managing finances correctly is not just best practice: it’s a grant requirement.
As an experienced Dublin accounting firm, we help sporting bodies secure funding and stay compliant. In this post, we highlight some of the most relevant grant opportunities. We also explain how to include accounting costs in your funding applications.
Why Financial Management Matters in Sport
Good financial records are essential. Whether you’re a local GAA club or a national sporting body, your ability to track income, expenses, and grants can affect your funding eligibility.
Many public grants now expect applicants to show proof of financial oversight. That includes submitting statements, tax clearance, or audit reports. This is where accounting for sporting organisations becomes more than just admin – it’s a funding tool.
Key Accounting Grants for Sporting Bodies Available
Ireland offers a wide range of funding to support sports clubs and organisations. Below are the main programmes relevant to accounting grants for sporting bodies.
1. Community Sport Facilities Fund (CSFF)
The Community Sport Facilities Fund (CSFF) is one of the most significant sources of funding for grassroots and national sport in Ireland.
- Total funding in 2025: €73.4 million (more than double the previous allocation of €34.5 million)
- Equipment-only grants: Available for a wide range of sports and community organisations
- Facility development grants: Prioritised for projects that improve access, participation, and sustainability
The CSFF allows organisations to include professional fees in their grant budgets. This includes services such as bookkeeping, accounting, and financial reporting. These supports make the fund ideal for clubs improving governance and facilities.
A review of the current funding round is underway. While a new round is anticipated, it’s expected to open in 2026, according to Minister of State Charlie McConalogue.
More on CSFF – gov.ie.
2. Large Scale Sport Infrastructure Fund (LSSIF)
The LSSIF funds large, long-term projects beyond the limits of the Community Sport Facilities Fund.
- Typical funding range: €600,000 – €30 million
- Eligible bodies: National Governing Bodies (NGBs), local authorities, and major clubs
- Supports: Feasibility studies, professional services, and large-scale capital works
Accounting services are often essential for managing complex projects in the sports industry. The LSSIF permits budgeting for professional fees, including financial reporting and oversight.
LSSIF applications are currently closed. The second round in April 2024 received €665 million in submissions, with €173 million awarded to 35 projects. Many valid applications are on a reserve list and may be funded if more resources become available.
A future round is expected, likely sooner than the six-year gap between the first (2018) and second (2024) rounds, though no date is confirmed.
More on LSSIF here.
3. Local Sports Partnerships (LSPs)
LSPs offer smaller-scale grants ideal for community sport projects.
- Typical grants: €1,000 – €5,000
- Focus: Equipment, coach education, and inclusion
- Occasional admin support available
Some LSPs include flexibility to cover operational costs like financial software or accountant support. Check with your local partnership.
4. Dormant Accounts Fund (via Sport Ireland)
This fund focuses on social inclusion and targeted development. It’s ideal for clubs working with underrepresented groups.
- Recent allocation: €6.4 million
- Supports: Inclusion programmes, training, admin costs, and governance
Admin support—such as budgeting, payroll, or bookkeeping—can be included. This makes it one of the few funds where accounting for sport can be part of a programme’s core funding.
Accounting grants for sporting bodies in Ireland require planning and awareness. The programmes listed above recognise the value of strong financial management.
If you need support preparing grant applications or managing finances after funding is secured, we can help. Our accounting firm in Dublin works with businesses of all sizes. We offer tailored services to meet your financial and compliance needs.
Explore our website to learn more about how we can support your team on and off the pitch.