Síol

Purpose of the Scheme

Síol provides strategic support to strengthen the arts in Gaeltacht areas and to encourage the development of new projects and approaches.

The priorities of the scheme are to:

• increase community participation in the arts;
• increase youth participation in the arts;
• support and enhance the practice of artists in the Gaeltacht.

Who does the scheme support?

Síol is open to groups and individuals operating outside the formal education sector in Gaeltacht areas. Priority will be given to projects delivered entirely through Irish.

Examples of funding areas under this scheme include:

• Arts projects, events, festivals or workshops, and exhibition/performance production
  Maximum grant: €1,000
• Launches of exhibitions, books or CDs
  Maximum grant: €300

Applications relating to young people

Young people are a key priority within the Ealaín na Gaeltachta’s current strategy. We have a dedicated fund focused on the development of traditional arts and drama for young people through the Cuisle programme, supported by the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht.

Applications may be made to Síol to create additional arts opportunities for young people outside the formal education context. It is expected that this will strengthen youth participation in the arts at community level and ensure that young people are fully embedded in the arts culture of Gaeltacht areas.

Examples of youth-related funding areas include:

• a series of events for young people (e.g. sessions, storytelling or social evenings);
• intergenerational events;
• one-off youth events (workshops, concerts, exchanges, etc.);
• conferences and festivals (seminars, youth platforms);
• mentoring for young people;
• development of oral arts traditions (e.g. dialogue performance, lúibíní, and related forms).

Please note that the examples above are provided as guidance only.

Who and what does the scheme not support?

The scheme does not support applicants who have received funding through Scéim Cothú.

Applicants who received a grant in the most recent round of Scéim na bhFéilte, Scéim Forbartha na nEalaíon, or Scéim Sparánachta may not seek funding through Síol for the same project.

The scheme does not support projects or events whose primary purpose is fundraising for charities.

How to apply

Applications must be submitted at least six weeks before the proposed date of the project, event or development.

Applicants must complete the application form in full and provide a clear description of the proposed project, event or development.

It is recommended that the form be printed and signed by the applicant before being submitted by email. Where the applicant is a committee or organisation, the form must be signed by the Chairperson of the Committee.

Before applying, applicants are advised to contact the Arts Facilitator in their area and/or the Youth Arts Development Officer.

How applications will be assessed

Applications will be assessed in line with the aims and priorities of the scheme, as well as:

• artistic quality and/or quality of participation;
• good practice;
• appropriate artist fees;
• the local arts context.

The budget is limited and it will not be possible to support every application.

Applicants should not assume that more than one application may be made within a 12-month period.

Applications for projects that may be more appropriately suited to other funding sources, either within or outside Ealaín na Gaeltachta, may not be accepted.

What happens if your grant is approved?

A letter of offer will be issued outlining the amount of the grant and the conditions attached.

This letter must be signed and returned to Ealaín na Gaeltachta, together with a bank details form, before payment can be made.

Please note that the applicant’s name must match the name on the bank account.

A report form must be completed following the project, together with at least two photographs for Ealaín na Gaeltachta’s promotional and general use.

Important notice

If direct contact with young people forms part of the proposed project, it is essential that, before any event begins, the group or individual complies with the guidelines set out under the Children First Act.

All individuals working with young people must have completed Garda Vetting and hold clear vetting clearance.

Advice and support are available from Ealaín na Gaeltachta to help groups and individuals comply with this legislation.

Public acknowledgement

If your application is successful, it is a condition of funding that public acknowledgement is given to Ealaín na Gaeltachta.

Where support is provided through the Cuisle programme, the Traditional Arts programme, and/or Youth Theatre/Drama, public acknowledgement must also be given to Ealaín na Gaeltachta, Údarás na Gaeltachta, and the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht.

Logos are available on www.ealain.ie and must be clearly visible on all publications and promotional material.

Conditions

• If successful, the financial support will be awarded to the applicant named on the application form.
  Please ensure that this name matches the bank details form.
• It is a strict condition that public acknowledgement is given to Ealaín na Gaeltachta, Údarás na Gaeltachta and the Arts Council.
• Logos available on www.ealain.ie must be clearly displayed on all publications and publicity material.
• A report form must be completed following the project, together with at least two photographs for Ealaín na Gaeltachta’s promotional and general use.
• Any additional conditions communicated by the Arts Facilitator must also be implemented.