Belfast City Council has announced the return of the 'Bank of Ideas' initiative for 2026, offering residents a direct role in how £50,000 of local funding is allocated. Now entering its third year, the scheme encourages individuals, community groups, and schools to submit proposals for creative projects that benefit their local neighbourhoods.

This year's programme coincides with the city hosting Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann from 2nd to 9th August. Consequently, the council is welcoming ideas that align with the festival's theme of 'celebrating together'. Successful projects are expected to take place between June and September 2026.

Launching the 2026 drive, the Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Tracy Kelly, said: "Over the last two years, the Bank of Ideas has given some great concepts the practical help and financing they needed to get up and running – everything from art clubs and dance workshops to sports days and neighbourhood meet-ups. There's a wealth of creativity in our city and this initiative helps bring that to the forefront, with ideas driven by local people who are keen to bring communities together and spend time doing the things they love." With the Fleadh projected to attract at least 800,000 visitors to the city this summer, the Lord Mayor highlighted the potential for local areas to showcase their unique culture and diversity.

"All suggestions are welcome – it might be a way to develop a shared interest, an idea to gather or showcase stories from your community or just something fun that brings people out to enjoy time together," Councillor Kelly added. "Best of all, you also get to 'sell' your idea to the public at our voting day, meaning residents get a direct say in how the money invested into the Bank of Ideas is spent across the city."

To assist applicants in refining their proposals, a series of 'idea generating' workshops will be held throughout Belfast in February and March. Following the submission deadline at 5pm on Monday 23rd March, eligible projects will be invited to a public voting day at City Hall in May.

The scheme aims to fund a minimum of 35 projects, with individual grants of up to £2,500 available. Applications and further information, including workshop schedules, can be found at belfastcity.gov.uk/culturefunding.