The PEACEPLUS Change Maker Funding Programme is designed to provide simple, accessible funding for local projects that strengthen peace, cohesion and relationships across communities and borders.
Over the next two years, €40 million will be distributed through grants of up to €100,000. The programme supports people-to-people projects that help build stronger cross-community and cross-border connections.
It is intended to reduce complexity for applicants, with a streamlined application process and less administrative burden than other PEACEPLUS funding strands. Community and voluntary groups, along with other organisations, can apply.
Applications can be submitted at any time up to 30 June 2026, and earlier applications will receive earlier decisions. Funding will continue to be distributed until 2027.
The programme is managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB) and delivered by Pobal, with support from Co-operation Ireland, Rural Action and East Border Region. Applicants can also access one-to-one guidance to help improve their proposals.
Funding is focused on projects that improve community cohesion and develop new or existing relationships across communities and borders. It sits under PEACEPLUS themes 1 and 6, covering peaceful communities, partnership-building and collaboration.
Projects must respond to local needs, but they must clearly show a cross-community and/or cross-border focus. The programme also includes simplified partnership arrangements and clearer budgeting requirements based on feedback from applicants.
Match funding is provided by the Department for Communities and the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht.