Community Arts Partnership is delighted to announce that applications are now open for the Anne O’Donoghue Award 2026/27, a unique professional development opportunity established to honour the life and legacy of the late Anne O’Donoghue and to support the continuing growth of Northern Ireland’s Community Arts sector.
The award recognises the vital role played by Arts Managers and Administrators in sustaining and developing creative and participatory practice.
The Anne O’Donoghue Award seeks to support those individuals through meaningful professional development opportunities that strengthen leadership, management and organisational capacity across the sector.
One Award of up to £5,000
The Award offers a single bursary of up to £5,000 and may support activities such as:
- training courses and professional development opportunities;
- mentoring, coaching and supervision;
- research and study visits;
- cultural exchange opportunities;
- specialist consultancy or leadership development;
- new equipment and software essential to the proposed programme of learning.
Projects supported through the Award should demonstrate clear benefit both to the applicant and to the wider Community Arts and participatory arts sector.
Who Can Apply?
Applications are welcomed from Arts Managers and Administrators working within Northern Ireland’s Community Arts sector who have a minimum of four years’ experience and who wish to deepen their practice, acquire new skills, or undertake a programme of professional development that will strengthen their contribution to the sector.
Applications from freelance practitioners working in arts management and administration are also welcomed.
Important Dates
- Applications Open: Friday 5 June 2026
- Application Deadline: Friday 26 June 2026
- Selection Process: July 2026
- Project Period: 1 August 2026 to 30 April 2027
Continuing a Remarkable Legacy
Anne O’Donoghue’s contribution to Community Arts in Northern Ireland was profound. Her commitment to participation, equality, excellence and the nurturing of others continues to inspire colleagues and organisations across the sector.
Through this Award, funded by the Arts Council of Northern Ireland, CAP seeks not only to honour Anne’s memory, but also to invest in the next generation of leadership within Community Arts.
Guidance notes and application materials are available here.
Anne O’Donoghue Award 2026_27 Application Form F (docx)
For enquiries, please contact:
Anne O’Donoghue Award Administration
Community Arts Partnership
aod@capartscentre.com
