Grants for late opening at Portlaoise cafés

A NEW grant scheme to encourage evening opening in Portlaoise cafés has just been launched by Laois Co Council.

Daytime cafés must open for at least two hours after 6pm to qualify for the grants, as well as provide some form of entertainment to foster ‘a late night café culture’.

The extended opening hours will start after 31 July, with ‘cultural programming’ that could include workshops and tastings, DJ sets, comedy clubs and themed nights.

Announcing the ‘Night Time Economy Grant Initiative’ this week, the council said it aims to increase footfall, length of stay and revenue streams for cafés.

It also hopes to diversify nightlife in the town by expanding evening options, offering an enhanced experience for residents, workers and visitors alike.

A spokesperson said: ‘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.’ Successful applicants must commit to extending their opening hours by at least two hours after 6pm and enhance their nighttime offering by hosting events.

The maximum grant is €750 or 75 percent of overall costs, whichever is less.

The council’s local enterprise office (LEO) is inviting cafés to apply for funding to introduce ‘engaging cultural programming’ on a pilot basis with effect from 6pm on 31 July. The deadline to apply for grants is 5pm on Friday 18 July.

All funds must be drawn down within two weeks of the event completion.

Further details are available from Elaine Moore at emoore@laoiscoco.ie or 057 8664218.