Global Games Development Fund 2023
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 has profited 148 projects. Some projects are once-off events, others have activities lasting throughout the year. All have been truly inspirational and beneficial. This year 118 International clubs & boards benefitted from this additional funding to aid with costs associated with equipment, insurance, pitch rental, match day costs.
In February 2023 we received in the region of 156 applications through the Global Games Development Fund award scheme, awarding 94% of applications funding. Last year we received 115 applications and 102 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 Seán Fleming, T.D. said:
“In my role as Minister for Diaspora, I am delighted to continue to work in partnership with the GAA, in promoting and supporting community orientated GAA clubs abroad through the Global Games Development Fund. This Fund receives matched funding from both the Department of Foreign Affairs’ Emigrant Support Programme, and the GAA. The Fund increases opportunities for the Irish diaspora, and the communities they live in, to play Gaelic games, strengthening our diaspora communities and their connection with Ireland. Gaelic Games are played in over 500 international GAA clubs from Washington to Wellington, Mexico to Melbourne, South Africa to Seoul.
The GAA plays a special role in the cultural and social life of Irish communities abroad. Through the work of the Global Games Development Fund, 146 projects from clubs across the globe have received funding for their activities in 2023. I would like to thank the GAA, and volunteer groups across the globe for their work and commitment.”
A total of €371,583 was distributed across the eight World GAA regions. The grant will improve club’s abilities to offer quality training to engage their members and grow the game – as outlined by one of recipients;
“Thank you for the funding, this is massive boost for the club! With the Global Games Development Fund, we'll improve our club's equipment, trainings, and ability to host other teams. Your trust in us and enabling our club to develop is greatly appreciated. We look forward to making the most of this opportunity and continuing to share and grow the GAA in South China”. - Ciaran McCann, Chairperson, Shunde Gaels
Niall Erskine, Chairman of the World GAA Committee, said: "We are enormously proud of the extent to which Gaelic Games are now being played and enjoyed overseas with more than 500 GAA Clubs in existence outside of Ireland. The Global Games Development Project plays a huge part in terms of support for these Clubs. 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.
"I would like to acknowledge our appreciation to the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade for their continued support for our clubs and communities abroad."
Uachtarán CLG Larry McCarthy said:
“On the eve of what will be our 140th anniversary, the GAA is enormously proud of the strength of our organisation throughout Ireland and our 1,600 clubs. But what is just as significant a success story are the near 500 GAA clubs thriving across the globe. No different to the clubs at home, these international GAA clubs are a vital support structure to the people and communities in which they operate and do so much more than the promotion of our culture and heritage. We are delighted that this work is recognised by the Government and are greatly appreciative of the support which we receive from them, and which enables us to strengthen World GAA and grow even further.”
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 2023.
