Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS)

The scheme recognises the importance of active healthy lifestyles and supports activities like walking, trekking, cycling, kayaking and hiking. The scheme helps to develop economic and tourism potential in rural areas, and it funds facilities that benefit both local communities and tourist visitors.

Who can apply?

Local community and voluntary groups can submit proposals to their local authority for consideration. Projects led by commercial businesses are not considered.

What can the funding be used for?

The projects that receive funding under this scheme must align with Embracing Ireland’s Outdoors, Ireland's national outdoor recreation strategy. Embracing Ireland’s Outdoors is a cross-government strategy that was developed with Comhairle na Tuaithe (the Countryside Council). For more details on Embracing Ireland’s Outdoors go to https://www.gov.ie/en/policy-information/43eee-embracing-irelands-outdo…

Projects supported by this scheme support recreational activities that take place outdoors in the natural environment. 

Activities that take place in confined courses or pitches (like golf or showjumping) are not supported. Motorised activities (like riding scrambler bikes) are also not considered.

The projects must be located in predominantly rural areas. Projects located within the boundaries of the five main cities (Dublin, Cork, Limerick, Galway, Waterford) are not considered.

How much is available?

This is a match-funding scheme, so it does not cover 100% of the costs of the project.

 Up to 90% of a project's costs can be funded be the scheme. The remaining 10% of the costs must come from other sources.

Funding is available under four streams. 

• Measure 1 is for small scale projects requiring funding of up to €30,000.
• Measure 2 is for medium scale projects with funding of up to €200,000.
• Measure 3 is for large scale projects seeking funding of up to €500,000.
• Project Development Measure funds up to €50,000 for development costs for strategic large-scale projects.

How are applications assessed?

Projects are selected for funding in a competitive process that assesses how well each application meets the aims of the scheme. The final project selection is made by the Department of Rural and Community Development, in consultation with both Fáilte Ireland and Sport Ireland as appropriate.

How do I apply?

Local authorities that are participating in this scheme put out an annual callout for expressions of interest as soon it's announced. Each local authority will post the details on their website, advising what kind of projects will be prioritised in the particular year, and how the proposals will be assessed. They will provide instructions for making your application, and they will advise the closing date.

Note that each local authority manages the application process in their area separately, and closing dates may vary. For further details contact your local authority.