Communities Minister Gordon Lyons has unveiled a £2 million funding package for sports clubs via his Olympic Legacy Fund for 2026/27, announced during a visit to Larne Rugby Football Club.

Minister Lyons said: "Today's announcement signals my continued commitment to make a positive difference to sport across Northern Ireland.

"At the heart of the success of the Olympic Legacy fund I established last year was an innovative approach to fundraising with clubs, their members and communities generating more than £1 million in additional financial contributions through crowd funding.

"So far we have facilitated investment of more than £2.1million into 81 grassroots sports clubs across Northern Ireland. This has enabled clubs to improve facilities, purchase new equipment and invest in their future."

The Minister added: "The partnership approach we take with clubs demonstrates the creativity, commitment and pride which people take in their facilities, people and community."

The Olympic Legacy Fund is delivered by Sport NI in partnership with Crowdfunder UK. Richard Archibald, Interim Chief Executive of Sport NI, said: "We are proud to work with the Department for Communities to deliver the Olympic Legacy Fund, improving sports facilities and creating more opportunities for people to participate in sport. Last year's fund had an incredible impact on sports clubs right across Northern Ireland, providing vital new sports equipment and supporting improvements such as resurfaced playing areas, floodlights, spectator stands and upgraded clubhouse facilities.

"Sports clubs are at the heart of our local communities, and this fund asks them to rally that community support through crowdfunding, building local ownership and helping investment go even further. We would encourage all interested clubs to join our webinar on Tuesday 29 September to find out more on how to apply."

Derek Lough, President, Larne RFC said: "The Olympic Legacy Fund is helping us create an accessible environment to welcome more of our local community into the club. The upgrade to our facility is vital for the people in Larne and beyond to get involved in rugby.

"This project wouldn't have been possible without the incredible support of our local community who donated to our crowdfunding appeal.

"I would encourage clubs to apply to this year's fund. We were supported by Sport NI throughout the application and crowdfunding process, and it was incredible to see so many people come together to support the club and help us meet our fundraising target."

Applications are now open, with two opportunities to apply — one live now and another due in November. Sport NI and Crowdfunder UK will host a webinar at noon on Tuesday 29 September for prospective applicants. Further information, including how to apply, is available on Sport NI's website.