Waterford City and County Council and Waterford Purple Flag have announced that the Night-Time Economy (NTE) Grant is now open for applications.
Following the success of the programme in 2025, the initiative is designed to support creative, cultural and community activity during off-peak evening hours in Waterford City.
The scheme aims to energise the city’s Purple Flag Zone with fresh and engaging events taking place between Sunday and Thursday after 5pm, bringing new life to Waterford after dark while diversifying its cultural and social offering for residents and visitors.
Waterford City and County Council has a long-standing commitment to supporting the cultural and creative life of Waterford. In 2026, elected members approved a budget of almost €1.7 million to support festivals, cultural events and artistic programming across the city and county.
The NTE Grant reflects and complements that commitment, with a specific focus on stimulating safe, inclusive and imaginative activity during traditionally quieter hours.
Grants ranging from €500 to €1,000 are available to artists, venues, businesses, community groups and creative collaborators wishing to trial events such as live performances, exhibitions, wellness evenings, guided tours, workshops and more. Collaborative, multi-partner applications with larger ambitions may also be considered, subject to available funding.
The initiative aligns with Waterford’s Purple Flag goals, which recognise excellence in evening and night-time management, as well as Waterford City and County Council’s ongoing commitment to nurturing a vibrant, safe and sustainable cultural life for all.
Michael Quinn, Director of Services with Waterford City and County Council, said: “Following the successful launch of the pilot scheme last year, we have seen how the NTE grants provided artists, community groups and businesses with exciting opportunities to develop innovative night-time initiatives that contributed to Waterford’s evening economy.
“The importance of a thriving night-time economy cannot be overstated and that is why once again the Council is proud to work with local stakeholders in continuing to encourage and enhance a dynamic, welcoming and vibrant city centre both day and night.”
Jim Gordon, Chair of the Purple Flag Committee, welcomed the opening of the grant scheme.
He said: “The NTE Grant has played an important role in bringing new energy and activity to Waterford city centre after dark. The positive response to these projects has demonstrated the value of supporting creative ideas that encourage people to experience the city in new ways.
“Building on this momentum, the latest round of funding will continue to support innovative projects that contribute to a vibrant and welcoming night-time economy.”
Applications are now open, with the deadline for submissions at 4.30pm on Wednesday, September 2nd 2026.
All supported events must take place between Sunday and Thursday after 5pm, between September 4th 2026 and November 13th 2026, within Waterford City’s Purple Flag Zone.
Applications can be made at https://waterford.submit.com/show/414
