A significant financial boost has been announced for the protection and promotion of Ireland's most prestigious heritage locations.

The World Heritage Strategic Investment Fund is entering an expanded pilot phase for 2026, with €350,000 in capital funding now available to support UNESCO World Heritage Properties and sites currently on the Tentative List.

This latest allocation marks a substantial increase from the 2025 pilot, which distributed €240,000 across nine separate projects. Managed by the National Monuments Service under the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, the scheme is delivered in partnership with local authorities across 10 eligible counties.

The funding is specifically earmarked for the conservation, maintenance, and protection of archaeological and built heritage. It also aims to empower local communities to take an active role in managing these sites while raising international awareness of Ireland's cultural significance.

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Announcing the 2026 fund, Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne TD, stated: "I am delighted to announce the investment scheme for World Heritage in Ireland is being continued in 2026, following its success in 2025. It builds on the Programme for Government commitment to support additional UNESCO sites to showcase Ireland's heritage internationally and supports the implementation of the World Heritage Strategy for Ireland which I launched last year. It will also assist our journey towards inscription of our Tentative List sites on the UNESCO World Heritage List."

Minister of State with responsibility for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity, Christopher O'Sullivan TD, emphasised the long-term value of the investment: "Investing in World Heritage is an investment in our shared past and our collective future. This scheme will help protect irreplaceable cultural treasures, support local communities, grow tourism and ensure that future generations can experience, enjoy and learn from the extraordinary heritage that defines us as a nation.

"Last year, the Pilot World Heritage Strategic Investment Fund saw €240,000 of funding allocated to nine projects. This year the funding has increased significantly with €350,000 now available – clearly demonstrating this Government's commitment to our precious heritage through sustained and meaningful support."

The fund is open to applications through relevant local authorities for sites meeting the strict UNESCO criteria. Eligible locations include established landmarks such as Sceilg Mhichíl and Brú na Bóinne, alongside Tentative List sites like the Royal Sites of Ireland (including Tara and Rathcroghan) and the Passage Tomb Landscape of County Sligo.