Galway City Council has launched the 2025 Shopfront Enhancement Scheme, with €200,000 to give the city a facelift.
The scheme provides grant funding for independent retail and hospitality businesses to enhance the appearance, accessibility, and heritage value of their shopfronts.
It aims to revitalise commercial streetscapes by supporting high-quality, culturally sensitive, and visually cohesive improvements to shopfronts.
Eligible applicants include:
- Independent retail and hospitality businesses with street-facing premises located within the boundaries of the three Architectural Conservation Areas (ACA) – City Core ACA, Lower Dominick Street ACA and Eyre Square ACA
- Owners or leaseholders (with landlord consent)
- Businesses compliant with commercial rates and planning regulations
Grants of up to €20,000 are available, covering up to 50% to 75% of eligible costs depending on the works. Supported works include:
- Shopfront repairs, painting, and bilingual signage
- Accessibility improvements and decluttering
- Enhancements or repairs to Protected Structures and buildings within the three ACAs (City Core ACA, Lower Dominick Street ACA and Eyre Square ACA)
- Collaborations with local artists and the use of traditional building skills
Mayor of the City of Galway, Cllr Peter Keane commented, “This scheme makes it more affordable for businesses in historic parts of the city centre to improve their shop fronts in a sensitive and appropriate manner – contributing to the appeal and atmosphere of the area, and supporting increased footfall and economic vitality.”
“The scheme will also support local artists and craftspeople creating and maintaining the facades, as well as creating a more accessible public realm and high-profile spaces for Gaeilge in our bilingual city.”
Joint applications from neighbouring businesses are encouraged and may receive enhanced support.
Applications must be submitted online via the Galway City Council Portal. The deadline for applications is Friday, July 11.
