Cork music venues receive government funding to support emerging talent 

Ten Cork venues have been selected as recipients of a €1m government scheme to support grassroots music venues and showcase emerging Irish talent.

In amounts ranging from €5,000 to €20,000, each of the venues has been given funding to put on events of artists performing original material. As well as musicians, venues platforming Irish comedy and comedians have also received funding this year.

“We greatly welcome the announcement of the grantees under the grassroots venue support scheme 2026,” said Edel Curtin, of Coughlan’s in Cork, speaking on behalf of the Live Venue Collective.

Vital financial help

“This is not just vital financial help for our venues; it is also an acknowledgement of the essential role our stages play in the development of Irish artists. There is a long, challenging road ahead in keeping our grassroots venues open and functioning, and this support is a step in the right direction.”

As well as Coughlan’s, other Cork recipients include Cyprus Avenue in the city, Prim’s Bookshop in Kinsale, Connolly’s of Leap, The White Horse in Ballincollig, Levis Bar in Ballydehob, De Barra’s Folk Club in Clonakilty, Arundels by the Pier in Ahakista, The Maritime Hotel (Live by the Bay) in Bantry, and Paddy Mac’s Bar and Lounge in Coachford.

Sixty venues chosen for support under the scheme this year after 34 were chosen for the pilot scheme last year.

A statement from the Department of Culture said it is hoped these events will also provide employment for crew, light and sound engineering, marketing, and PR, as well as contributing to a thriving night-time economy.

However, the scheme has recently faced criticism from Siptu as falling “drastically short of the investment required” to stabilise the sector.

“While we welcome the support for venues, the Government must address the wider issues of low pay and instability that define the night-time economy,” Siptu’s Áine Feeney said.