Global Games Development Fund to Support Gaelic Games Worldwide

Since 2013, through the Global Games Development Fund (GGDF) the Department of Foreign Affairs and the GAA has provided matched funding for development projects in GAA Asia, Australasia, Canada, United States, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and South America. The fund provides financial support specifically for projects and initiatives that increase or improve opportunities for the Irish Diaspora and other communities abroad to play Gaelic Games. Through the provision of financial assistance, the Fund aims to support the Irish Diaspora and strengthen Irish networks and Irish identity Internationally.

From supporting 14 projects in 2013, this year the fund will profit 199 projects – a 12% increase from the 178 projects in 2024. Some projects are once-off events, others have activities lasting throughout the year. All have been truly inspirational and beneficial. Last year 164 International clubs & boards benefitted from this additional funding to aid with costs associated with equipment, insurance, pitch rental, and match day costs.

In November 2024 we received in the region of 209 applications through the Global Games Development Fund award scheme, awarding 95% of applications funding. Last year we received 197 applications and 178 were approved for funding. This statistic highlights the growth of Gaelic games across the globe, whether for underage or adult development – the GAA is an integral part of communities around the world.

We would like to acknowledge the support from our partners the Department of Foreign Affairs for their ongoing support. The Minister of State for International Development and Diaspora, Mr Richmond, T.D. said:

“At the heart of many of our Diaspora communities lies the GAA. With over 500 clubs around the world, these clubs are a home away from home for many members of our global Irish family.

“As Minister for the Diaspora, I am delighted to continue this long-running partnership between the Department of Foreign Affairs and the GAA. The Global Games Development Fund underpins our shared goal of growing Gaelic Games around the world.

“In 2025, the Fund will support over 200 projects in local GAA clubs from San Francisco to Sydney, and Brussels to Buenos Aires.

“GAA clubs continue to provide a connection to Ireland and our Irish heritage for both young and old alike. Whenever I visit overseas, I am always struck by the passion and dedication of the many volunteers who devote their time and energy to promoting Gaelic Games. I want to extend my thanks to all those who work so hard to develop and grow our sporting heritage and support our diaspora communities around the world.”

A total of €400,000 will be distributed across the seven World GAA regions. The grant will improve club’s abilities to offer quality training and matches to engage their members and grow the game.

Ciarán McLaughlin, Chairman of the World GAA Committee, said: "I am delighted to be able to highlight the extent to which Gaelic Games is developed overseas. There are now 500+ clubs providing football, hurling and camogie outside of Ireland. The Global Games Development Project plays a huge part in supporting these Clubs, providing financial support specifically for projects and initiatives that increase or improve opportunities for participation in our Associations by the Irish Diaspora and other communities abroad.

I extend our deepest gratitude to the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade for their continued support for our clubs and communities abroad. Their support is vital in sustaining and developing clubs across the world."

Uachtarán CLG Jarlath Burns said:

“The global reach and impact of World GAA goes from strength to strength. To view our games and the extraordinary effort and commitment that our Diaspora make to play and promote them is a source of great pride to us, and so, too, the popularity that our games have when introduced to new cultures and communities.

We are committed to growing Gaelic Games even further and the support and expertise of the Department of Foreign Affairs through the Global Games Development Fund allows us to plan for the future with confidence. Promoting Ireland’s national games and giving the Irish abroad a connection to home by playing them is a responsibility we take seriously. Our partnership with the DFA is writing new chapters in a continuing success story.”

Croke Park would also like to take this opportunity to thank the International Boards for their input and wish all the applicant’s success with their projects and activities for 2025.