£26,000 one-off Grants Fund Available
Culture Vannin has announced a funding boost for Manx language projects, by committing to mark Blein ny Gaelgey – the Year of the Manx Language 2026, with a one-off £26,000 grants fund.
The YML26 Grants Fund will open for applications from 22 September to 31 October 2025. It invites individuals, groups, and organisations, on-Island and beyond, to propose ambitious projects that will celebrate, develop, and boost the use of Manx throughout 2026.
The grants fund is open to all – whether you speak Manx or not: we want to encourage as many people as possible to get involved with the Year!
Chris Thomas MHK, Chair of Culture Vannin, said:
“2026 presents an opportunity to focus ourselves and others on our Manx language by supporting projects that align with the five themes of the Year of the Manx Language. These are: engaging young people and families; celebrating identity and sense of place; nurturing community and creativity; developing research and resources; and promoting lifelong learning.”
Projects to be designed and delivered by the applicants may include public engagement activities, creative collaborations, research, recordings, publications, workshops, educational resources, or pilot initiatives that strengthen and sustain the Manx language. All successful projects will be expected to include some form of online delivery to maximise reach and accessibility.
Dr Breesha Maddrell, Director of Culture Vannin, added:
“We’re looking for projects that showcase the vibrancy of the Manx language and inspire people in 2026 and beyond. This fund offers the chance to support creative, ambitious, and meaningful ideas that will make a real difference for the language and for everyone who values or connects with it.”
Priority will be given to projects that:
- Promote a positive image of the Manx language
- Increase participation and usage
- Inspire creativity and innovation
- Establish a sustainable legacy
Further information including the application form and guidance notes is available at: https://culturevannin.im/grantsandawards/grants/year-of-the-manx-language-2026-grants-fund/
To discuss your idea before applying, or for any queries relating to Culture Vannin’s YML26 Grants Fund please call 01624 676169 or email funding(at)culturevannin.im
The Year of the Manx Language 2026 Grants Fund follows on from the successful Treisht26 fund launched by the charity earlier this summer. Treisht26 funded creative projects of £500 each designed by Culture Vannin’s development officers. Over 80 applications were received, of which 30 were successful. In addition to these special funds supporting the Year of the Manx Language 2026, Culture Vannin continues to invite funding applications to its quarterly Board Meetings for projects that meet the charity’s broad remit, as defined in the Manx Heritage Foundation Act 1982.
