Over €275k awarded for arts in early learning childcare projects
The Arts Council and Department of Children, Disability and Equality have funded nearly €280,000 to support innovative creative initiatives for young children. Nine artists and organisations will deliver these high-quality experiences across Irish early-learning settings this year.
Over €275k Awarded for Arts in Early Learning Childcare Projects
The Arts Council has announced the successful distribution of €275,849 in funding under its 2026 Arts in Early Learning and Childcare scheme. This initiative, delivered in partnership with the Department of Children, Disability and Equality, marks the fourth year of the programme which originally launched as a pilot in 2023.
Nine artists and arts organisations have received individual awards of up to €40,000 each. These funds will support a diverse range of innovative projects designed to bring the arts into early-learning and childcare environments nationwide. The scheme prioritises collaboration between creative practitioners, early-years educators, families, and carers to foster skills and confidence in the youngest members of society.
Minister for Children, Disability and Equality, Norma Foley, expressed her delight at the successful recipients, highlighting how the initiative strengthens connections between the arts and childcare sectors. She emphasised that such cross-departmental partnerships are vital for enhancing early childhood experiences.
Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport, Patrick O’Donovan, also offered congratulations to the applicants, noting the importance of securing access to the arts for all ages through collaborative efforts.
Maura McGrath, Chair of the Arts Council, reflected on the scheme’s success since its inception in 2023. She stated that the programme demonstrates the critical importance of ensuring access to art for everyone, including Ireland's youngest citizens. Full details regarding the funding decisions are available on the Arts Council’s official website.