The Belfast City Council's 'Bank of Ideas' is set to reopen its doors for a public voting day at City Hall on Sunday, 29 June, inviting residents of all ages to decide which creative projects will receive funding for their local communities.

From 2pm to 5pm, the event will feature a market stall-style showcase where organisations and individuals will present their diverse ideas, ranging from murals and music events to community gardens and upcycling workshops. The public will then cast votes for their favourite concepts. A total of 25 projects, spread across the east, west, south, north, and centre of the city, will each receive up to £2,000 to bring their ideas to fruition between July and October 2025.

Deputy Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Paul Doherty, encouraged widespread participation.

"We had such a fantastic response to the Bank of Ideas as part of last year’s Belfast 2024 celebration of culture and creativity – so much so, that we’ve brought it back again this year," he said. He added that this year's initiative has "widened out the voting process to include children too – giving them a vital opportunity to have their voices heard and a say in the kind of events available for them." Councillor Doherty highlighted the programme's community focus: "This initiative is all about being creative and getting people together to deliver activities locally which encourage expression, support good mental health, foster new friendships and bring vibrancy to our local neighbourhoods." Over 110 ideas were submitted during the nomination period, and their organisers will be present at City Hall to elaborate on their visions.

The voting day at City Hall is free to attend and promises a family-friendly atmosphere with circus workshops, live music from acts like Belfast Ukulele Jam, face-painting, and bubble magic, alongside a special 'Bank Manager' character. BSL and ISL interpreters will be available, ensuring the event is fully accessible. No prior registration is required.

The 'Bank of Ideas' is part of a broader suite of initiatives by Belfast City Council aimed at supporting the city’s vibrant cultural sector. These include the reopening of the Cultural Multi-Annual Grants programme this summer, which will provide nearly £2.5 million in funding to over 50 organisations, and the ongoing late-night art initiative on the first Thursday of each month, where galleries open their doors to visitors. The fifth phase of the Belfast Canvas project is also underway, transforming almost 30 utility boxes into street artworks by 25 local artists. Additionally, a legal walls pilot programme and a mentoring scheme for the street art community are being developed to support at least 30 artists.

Looking ahead, Culture Night Belfast will return on Friday, 19th September, with a new format focusing on more intimate, artist-led, and venue-based experiences across the city, with further details to be announced.

For more information on the 'Bank of Ideas' and the council’s support for culture and arts in Belfast, visit belfastcity.gov.uk/culture.