Funding available in 2019 for angling projects and events

Initiatives which support novice anglers and angling tourism invited to apply for funding to Inland Fisheries Ireland’s Sponsorship Programme 2019

Inland Fisheries Ireland has launched its Sponsorship Programme for 2019 and is now inviting applications from suitable angling events and initiatives nationwide. The programme, which is one of the funding mechanisms of the National Strategy for Angling Development, awarded funding to 62 Irish angling events and 10 teams representing Ireland in overseas international events to the combined value of €30,000 last year.

The Sponsorship Programme supported 17 initiatives by local angling clubs during the year which included junior competitions, summer leagues, disability outreach programmes and angling coaching workshops. In total, 630 juvenile and novice anglers participated in these initiatives and almost 300 of them joined a fishing club for the first time following their participation in a local engagement project.

In addition to junior and novice angling projects, there were 28 large scale angling events supported via the programme in 2018 with 1,866 experienced anglers taking part. Over 800 anglers travelled from outside Ireland to participate in these angling competitions.

The events and initiatives which are eligible for funding in 2019 are as follows:

  • Large international competitions held in Ireland which showcase Ireland’s angling and contribute to local economies, supporting jobs and businesses.
  • Novice angler events & training courses which increase participation in angling including funding of transport hire for participants to facilitate attendance at novice angler events.
  • Information dissemination / initiatives to promote fisheries awareness / conservation and protection of the inland fisheries and sea angling resource / promotion of angling as a key Irish tourism activity e.g. Production of high quality angling promotional videos / seminars / coaching / training / workshops etc.
  • Juvenile and minority angling teams representing Ireland at international events both home and abroad.

Applications for funding from the Sponsorship Scheme are now invited from angling clubs, associations or any local group organising an angling initiative. The scheme will remain open for funding applications until the 18th of January 2019 with applications for equipment, staff support and biosecurity assistance available throughout the year.

To find out more and to apply, visit www.fisheriesireland.ie/sponsorship .  Awards will be subject to budget availability and adherence to the scheme requirements.