Kingspan Kickstart Sports Fund
Amateur athletes and sports clubs across Ireland are encouraged to apply for the Kingspan Kickstart Sports Fund, designed to support aspiring athletes in achieving their goals. With a proud history of fostering sports development through partnerships like RC Toulon, Uruguay Rugby and Cavan GAA, Kingspan is committed to providing a platform for grassroots athletes, local sports clubs, and community facilities. The fund runs quarterly, with selections taking place at the end of Q1 and Q2, offering financial assistance for essential needs such as equipment, training, and other resources.
Who can apply?
The Kingspan Kickstart Sports Fund is open to individuals and organisations across the Island of Ireland, including both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. We welcome applications from all communities, aiming to support grassroots sports, emerging talent, & impactful sporting initiatives that align with our values throughout Ireland.
Kingspan Kickstart Sports Fund
Applications are now open for the 2026 Kingspan Kickstart Sports Fund. Click below to start your application.
Kingspan Kickstart Sports Fund - FAQs
Need more help?
If you have read the above and still have questions, please note that for efficiency, all program details are hosted here on the website. Our email inbox is unmonitored to ensure all resources are focused on reviewing applications and supporting our successful athletes.
What can the funding be used for?
The financial support is flexible and intended to cover essential needs such as:
Training equipment and performance gear.
Coaching, nutrition, or sports science support.
Travel and accommodation expenses for competitions.
Facility improvements or necessary resources for clubs.
Who is eligible to apply for the Kingspan Kickstart Sports Fund?
The fund is open to all athletes, sports clubs/organisations based on the island of Ireland. We support talent across all disciplines, from team sports like rugby and GAA to individual pursuits such as cycling, athletics, and motorsports.
How much funding is available?
Individuals: Funding typically starts from €1,000
Organisations/Clubs: Funding typically starts from €2,500
Note: Higher amounts may be awarded at our discretion for applicants who can demonstrate significant brand coverage opportunities or exceptional partnership value
Will I be notified about the outcome of my application?
Yes, all applicants will be contacted via email to confirm whether their application was successful or unsuccessful. However, please note that due to the high volume of entries, we are unable to provide specific individual feedback or reasons for the decision.
When can I apply?
The fund accepts entries in Q1 and Q2 (January to June) only. Please ensure your application is submitted within these periods to be considered for the year's funding rounds.
Is the fund limited to amateur athletes?
No. We support athletes at various stages of their careers, from grassroots to elite levels. Our goal is to help individuals and organisations reach their potential, regardless of their professional status.
Are there any conditions if I receive funding?
Yes, we ask recipients to act as ambassadors for the fund, which includes providing media/social media coverage and potentially adding the Kingspan logo to their training or competition attire where appropriate.
Can I discuss my application or add any additions to it over email?
No. In order to keep our process as fair and consistent as possible, we cannot accept additional information or discuss applications via email once they have been submitted. All relevant details must be included in your initial online submission.
Featured Kickstart Athletes
Annalise Murphy
Olympic silver medallist and three-time Olympian, Annalise Murphy won silver for Ireland in sailing at Rio 2016. She will return to competition at the 2026 World Championships.
Paul Brady
Paul Brady, legendary Cavan handballer and 6-time World Champion, claimed his 11th All-Ireland Senior Singles title at 45yrs old.
Alex Denning
Alex Denning, professional racing driver from Dublin and 2022 Irish Young Driver of the Year, won the 2025 Lamborghini Super Trofeo Asia PRO championship.
Gearóid McDaid
Gearóid McDaid, professional surfer from Sligo and 7-time Irish National Champion, made history by becoming Ireland's first European Surfing Champion in 2025.
Mark Cadden
Mark Cadden won the 2026 West of Ireland Men’s Amateur Open Championship. One of Ireland’s rising young talents, he continues to compete at the highest level of amateur golf.
Canoeing Ireland
Our partnership with Canoeing Ireland supports Ireland’s leading paddlers, helping them reach their potential both on and off the water.