Managed Open Call provides a structured and transparent process through which organisations in Northern Ireland and the border counties of Ireland can propose projects aligned with the IFI’s strategic objectives. This process is designed to identify and support partners, broaden participation across sectors and communities, ensuring that the IFI continues to benefit from emerging ideas, local expertise and innovative approaches.
It is anticipated that Open Calls for applications will be issued biannually and will clearly outline the eligibility criteria for funding. Applications will be assessed through a robust evaluation process to ensure that proposals demonstrate:
- Strong alignment with IFI strategic objectives;
- Clear potential for measurable impact;
- Value for money and effective use of resources; and
- Capacity to deliver and sustain outcomes.
For more information on the application process, please see the documents in the Guidance for Applicants section on this page.
Applications for Managed Open Call Round One commences on Monday 15 June 2026 at 09:00. This round will remain open for three weeks, closing at 12 noon on Monday 6 July 2026. The earliest the funding will be made available is January 2027 and note projects must be capable of starting before the end of April 2027.
Applications for projects based in Northern Ireland can apply for funding ranging from £30,000 to £150,000.
Applications for projects based in the eligible border counties of Ireland (Donegal, Sligo, Leitrim, Cavan, Monaghan and Louth) can apply for funding ranging from €35,000 to €170,000.
For future funding calls, the IFI Board may publish specific priority themes. This will clearly signal the types of projects that will be given preference, based on current strategic goals and emerging community needs.
The Open Call application process operates as a two-pathway application system. Each pathway is determined by the jurisdiction of the applying organisation.
One pathway is dedicated to applications for proposed projects which will be based in the eligible border counties of Ireland (Donegal, Sligo, Leitrim, Cavan, Monaghan and Louth). Applications submitted through this pathway will be received and assessed by the IFI Dublin Secretariat.
Another pathway is dedicated for applications for proposed projects which will be based in Northern Ireland. Applications submitted through this pathway will be received and assessed by the IFI Belfast Secretariat.
Please click on the relevant pathway to begin your application:
This will enable the IFI to work in a proactive, targeted and collaborative manner with organisations operating in areas of greatest need in Northern Ireland.
The IFI will work with organisations to co-design interventions that respond to local circumstances and align with the strategic objectives of the IFI. This collaborative process will ensure that initiatives deliver meaningful and sustainable outcomes.
In addition to supporting specific projects or initiatives, the IFI will work with organisations to strengthen organisational capability, helping them to develop the structures, skills and partnerships necessary to sustain and expand their work over time.
Direct partnerships will allow the IFI to:
- co-design interventions with organisations to deliver on strategic objectives;
- continue to target investment in the areas of highest need in Northern Ireland; and
- respond strategically to emerging or challenges in the peacebuilding landscape.
The Direct Partnership Approach will be launched at a later stage.
