Oíche na hÓige / Youth Night Grant 2026

The Department of Education and Youth launch Oíche na hÓige 2026 with €450,000 Support Fund.

Cavan and Monaghan Education and Training Board (CMETB), along with Education and Training Boards (ETBs) across Ireland, is joining forces with the Department of Education and Youth, the National Youth Council of Ireland, and a range of independent youth organisations to host Oíche na hÓige / Youth Night 2026 on Friday, 13 November 2026.

Oíche na hÓige aims to shine a national spotlight on the creativity, energy and impact of youth work in every community, from local villages to busy towns, celebrating the programmes, projects and people that make youth work such a vital part of community life.

Through events, performances, exhibitions, open days and youth-led activities, Oíche na hÓige will showcase the talent and leadership of young people, while recognising the invaluable contribution of youth workers and volunteers who support them.

Speaking on the launch of the grant scheme, Sonya McQuaid, CMETB Youth Officer, said:  “Following the tremendous success of its first year, Oíche na hÓige returns in 2026 as a growing national celebration of youth work and the achievements of young people. It provides an opportunity to showcase the creativity, leadership and talent of young people while recognising the invaluable contribution of youth organisations and volunteers. We are excited to see communities across the country come together once again to celebrate young people, highlight the difference that youth work makes, and strengthen community connections through Oíche na hÓige 2026.”

To encourage participation across the country, the Department of Education and Youth has announced a €450,000 national grant scheme to help youth clubs and services host Oíche na hÓige events.

Funding will be distributed through local ETBs, with grants available as follows:

· Up to €500 for youth clubs funded under the Local Youth Club Grant Scheme

· Up to €1,200 for youth services funded under UBU Your Place Your Space

Applications can be submitted through the CMETB online portal at: https://cmetb.submit.com/show/24

Closing date for receipt of applications is Monday, September 21, 2026 at 11:59pm. Grants will be issued in advance of the 13th November 2026, allowing time to prepare for Youth Night celebrations.

For more information, please contact CMETB Youth Services on 04730888