Communities Minister Gordon Lyons launched the pilot stage of the Grassroots Facilities Programme. The programme forms part of the Northern Ireland Football Fund. It allocates £9 million to support six projects province-wide.

Funding for each project ranges from £500,000 to £1.5 million. The Department for Communities plans first payments in the 2026/2027 financial year. Lyons made the announcement at Wellington Rec FC in Larne.

Lyons stated that the funding addresses facility needs at nearly 600 grassroots clubs. He noted that the pilot represents an initial step, with the sector requiring further investment.

Department for Communities officials will hold information sessions to aid applications. Applications opened immediately. Details appear on the department's website.