Two popular Dundalk pubs receive grassroots music funding

Two well-known Dundalk pubs, Mo Chara and Spirit Store, have been announced among the recipients of new funding under the Grassroots Music Venues Support Scheme. The scheme, aimed at supporting small, established venues that host live performances by emerging artists, is part of a wider initiative to boost the night-time economy across Ireland. Both venues, recognised for their strong commitment to grassroots music, will receive funding to continue providing a platform for local and emerging talent.

The Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport, Patrick O’Donovan, T.D. today announced the recipients of the €500,000 scheme.

A total of 33 venues nationally have been offered funding of up to €15,000 from the Night-Time Economy Grassroots Music Venues Support Scheme to support the continued programming of early-career musicians.  Applications were received from a wide range of late-night venues including pubs, nightclubs and theatres. Venues in many rural towns and villages are being supported, with funding awarded to 16 venues outside of our major cities.

Following the announcement of the Scheme in March 2025, there was a high level of interest in this pilot scheme, with nearly 100 applications submitted before the scheme was closed. 

Those approved for funding met the scheme’s eligibility criteria, which included a requirement to demonstrate evidence of a strong track record of regularly holding ticketed grassroots music events, showcasing emerging artists performing original music, spanning the years 2023-2024.

Minister O’Donovan said: 

“Our grassroots music venues play a vital role in nurturing emerging musicians and providing them with an opportunity to hone their talent, and it is very important that we recognise their contribution to the music industry, particularly given the challenges these venues face.

"I look forward to seeing the diversity of genre and talent that will reach new audiences as a result of this funding over the months ahead. I’d also encourage music lovers from across the country to embrace the resource of their local venue and support artists in the early stages of their careers.”

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The Grassroots Music Venues Support Scheme is a Night-Time Economy initiative in support of the work of the Night-Time Economy Taskforce and following a recommendation emerging from Action 5 in the revised Night-Time Economy Action Plan.

This scheme will provide funding for a series of events showcasing grassroots artists performing live/electronic music they have written/created themselves. It is envisaged that these events will also provide employment for crew, light and sound engineering, marketing and PR, and it is hoped it will increase footfall to grassroots venues and contributing to a thriving night-time economy.

A total of 96 applications for funding were received.