Galway launches pilot grant initiative to encourage late-night café culture

Galway City Council has launched a new pilot grant initiative to try and cultivate a late-night café culture.

The grant, titled ‘Café Lates’, is available for cafés in Salthill and Galway City Centre, aiming to encourage late night cultural events.

In a statement, Galway City Council (GCC) outlined the two main goals of the grant, which are diversifying nightlife, and stimulating the economy.

The range of potential programming suggested by GCC in their statement ranges from live performances from local bands to “intimate acoustic and DJ sets”.

Spoken word poetry, comedy acts, book clubs, workshops and themed nights are among some of the other suggestions. The council also said they encourage "programming that appeals to a youth audience, creating a welcoming and inclusive space for all."

Galway City Council is pleased to announce "Café Lates," a pilot grant initiative designed to foster a vibrant and diverse late-night café culture

Apply by 25 July 2024.

Minimum Grant €500; Maximum Grant €2,000

See https://t.co/8AUXbVNAZd pic.twitter.com/EbMMhclnB8

— Galway City Council (@GalwayCityCo) July 8, 2024

The grant will cover costs related to artist fees, equipment rental, as well as any other expenses relating to the programming. The grant ranges from €500-€2000.

Running from September to November 10, the deadline to apply for the grant is July 25. Application forms can be found on the GCC website.