Seeking Expressions of Interest
MID is now inviting Expressions of Interest (EOIs) from community groups seeking funding under the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS) 2026-2027.
MID can assist with applications for Project Development Measure, Measure 1, or Measure 2 funding.
Project Development Measure
Project Development Measure (PDM) funding supports the planning and detailed pre-development of projects, to enable them to reach a high standard (be “shovel-ready”) for application under future rounds of ORIS (Measure 1, Measure 2, or Measure 3.)
Such work might encompass detailed design, screenings, preparation for planning and/or procurement, appropriate assessment, ecological surveys etc.
MID can submit up to three prioritised applications for PDM with a combined value of €70,000.
Measure 1
Measure 1 provides funding of up to €40,000 at a 90% rate of aid for small-scale repair, development, promotion and marketing projects. Applicants must source 10% match-funding elsewhere.
Eligible work includes, but is not limited to, the upkeep, repair, maintenance and development of trails, walkways, mountain access routes, cycleways, blueways; recreational facilities at bogs, rivers, lakes and beaches; natural play areas that form part of a larger outdoor recreation project; and the promotion and marketing of such infrastructure. Projects should, where possible, indicate how they are inclusive of people with disabilities and older adults.
All projects must be finished and drawdown of funding completed within 18 months of approval.
MID can submit up to three prioritised applications for Measure 1.
Measure 2
Measure 2 provides funding of up to €200,000 at a 90% rate of aid for medium scale development of new recreational infrastructure; extensions/upgrades to already established trails, walkways, mountain access routes, cycleways, blueways, water or cycle trails or other recreational facilities at bogs, rivers, lakes or beaches.
Projects can also include works for the repair, maintenance or promotion of such infrastructure. Applicants must source 10% match-funding elsewhere.
All projects must be finished and drawdown of funding completed with 24 months of approval.
MID can submit only one application for Measure 2.
Guidelines
For more information on eligibility and assessmet criteria, applicants are strongly advised to read the ORIS Scheme Outline 2026-2027 available to download below or via the ORIS page on Gov.ie
You can also visit the ORIS page on our website here for more information about the scheme, including what types of projects will get priority in 2026. Example application forms are available to view.
Submit an Expression of Interest
Community groups with eligible outdoor recreation projects are invited to complete and return the attached form to the Rural Recreation Officer by email or by post.
The closing date for completed Expression of Interest forms is Friday August 28 at 5pm.
This is to allow us time to review all submissions and support you in preparing a strong application with all the requisite supporting material in time for the application deadline of September 25th, 2026 (for Measure 1 or PDM applications).
Email: rro@midl.ie
Post: Rural Recreation Officer, Monaghan Integrated Development, Unit 9 Drumillard Business Park, Castleblayney, Co. Monaghan A75 HR59
