Laois County Council are pleased to announce a call for a “Café Evening Opening,” grant initiative. This initiative aims to:
- Diversify Nightlife: Expand evening options, offering an enhanced experience for residents, workers, and visitors alike.
- Stimulate the Economy: Increase dwell time, encourage additional footfall, and increase revenue streams for cafés during evening hours.
The types of programming we envisage and encourage include live performances from local bands, intimate acoustic and DJ sets, spoken word and poetry, comedy, book clubs, workshops and tastings, and themed nights. We also encourage programming that appeals to a youth audience, creating a welcoming and inclusive space for all.
We are inviting cafés located in Portlaoise to apply for funding to introduce engaging cultural programming after 6 p.m. on:
The successful applicants must commit to extending their opening hours by at least two hours after 6 p.m. and enhancing their night-time offering.
Who Can Apply: Cafés located in Portlaoise that can host events and are interested in piloting evening and night-time events. Successful applicants must organise events that will extend their opening hours by at least two hours after 6 p.m. on Thursday, 31st July 2025.
The closing date for applications is 5 p.m. on Wednesday 30th July. Successful applicants will be notified by email. All funds must be drawn down within two weeks of the event completion. The max grant payable is €750 or 75% of overall costs, whichever is the lessor. Depending on the success of the call, subsequent call may be advertised.
Cafés located in Portlaoise that can host events and are interested in piloting evening and night-time events. Successful applicants must organise events that will extend their opening hours by at least two hours after 6 p.m. on Thursday, 31st July 2025.