Airbnb Rural Tourism Fund
Supporting rural communities across Ireland
From wild coastlines and family-run restaurants to lovingly restored heritage sites and local festivals that bring towns and villages to life, tourism creates lasting benefits for rural communities across Ireland.At Airbnb, we see this first-hand. By welcoming visitors from around Ireland and overseas, local hosts help support local businesses, organisations and attractions year-round.That's why we're committing €200,000 to the Rural Tourism Fund - with grants of up to €20,000 available to local organisations and communities across Ireland whose work champions rural tourism.Whether that's helping visitors explore Ireland's landscapes, creating local food and drink experiences, or preserving the heritage and traditions that make your community unique, we want to hear from you.
Frequently asked questions
What are we looking for?
We are looking for initiatives of all sizes that support rural tourism in Ireland and bring real benefits to local communities. We’re particularly interested in projects that encourage visitors to explore rural Ireland throughout the year.Eligible projects should fall into at least one of the following categories:Outdoor & Activity: Initiatives that promote Ireland's natural landscapes and outdoor experiences - from walking trails and water sports to cycling routes and adventure tourism.Heritage & Arts: Projects that celebrate or preserve Ireland's culture, history and heritage - festivals, traditional crafts, historical sites and the stories that make rural Ireland unique.Hospitality & Food: Initiatives that showcase the best of Irish food, drink and hospitality - supporting the local producers, restaurants, pubs and experiences that give visitors a taste of rural Ireland.For this programme, we are not considering initiatives that involve improving or providing new accommodation.
Who can apply?
We welcome applications from a broad range of organisations, including small businesses, social enterprises, community groups, and cultural and heritage groups.1 Eligible projects must be based in rural Ireland or contribute to rural tourism beyond Ireland’s major cities.2
How do I apply?
Submit your application via the entry form below by 23:59 on 16 September, 2026.Assessment. Applications will be assessed based on eligibility and alignment with the fund’s goals.3Final selection. Successful applicants will be awarded funding to help bring their project to life.Please note: Grant funding will be allocated in December 2026. If your initiative takes place before then, please explain how you'd use the funding for future activities instead.
Why should I apply?
Successful applicants could receive a grant of up to €20,000 to help create memorable experiences that benefit the wider community.
Meet last year’s winners
Last year, 12 organisations received funding through Airbnb's Rural Tourism Fund. Meet some of last year's recipients - from a father-and-son e-bike tour business in Co. Clare to a volunteer-led heritage park in Co. Westmeath - and hear how the funding helped make a difference.
Ready to get started?
Fill out the form below and tell us how your initiative supports rural tourism and benefits your wider community. Application deadline is 23:59 on 16 September 2026.
To be eligible, you must: be aged 18 or over, represent an eligible organisation, be based in, or proposing an initiative based in “Rural Ireland” (see full Terms & Conditions and Privacy Notice below), and be not otherwise deemed ineligible under the Terms and Conditions. Maximum 1 entry per organisation/ initiative.