Cork City Council has officially announced its call for applications for the 2024 twinning grant programme, aimed at fostering stronger bonds with its international twinned cities. This initiative welcomes proposals from organisations keen to develop projects that will bolster Cork’s relationship with its twinned cities across the globe.

Cork City boasts twinning agreements with several international cities, including Cologne in Germany, Coventry in the UK, Rennes in France, San Francisco in the USA, Shanghai in China, and Swansea in the UK. Additionally, the programme extends eligibility to projects involving Cork’s partner cities of Wuxi, Hangzhou, and Shenzhen in China, further broadening the scope for applicants to engage in international collaboration.

The primary objective of the grant is to support the creation of enduring and reciprocal connections between Cork-based organisations and their counterparts in these twin cities. The scheme is designed to underpin a wide array of activities, ranging from cultural, educational, and sporting endeavours to initiatives that promote people-to-people links.

Lord Mayor Cllr Kieran McCarthy, speaking before the official launch, emphasised the twinning grant’s historical success in enriching Cork’s international relations. “The twinning grant has funded a vibrant range of activities over the years, which have served to enhance and deepen our sporting, cultural, educational, and people-to-people links internationally,” he stated. McCarthy encourages organisations with innovative ideas to step forward and apply, assuring them of the potential to contribute significantly to Cork’s global presence.

Applications for the grant are now open and must be submitted electronically via the designated online platform. The deadline for submission is set for 5 pm on Tuesday, 5th March. Cork City Council’s International Relations Office has offered its assistance to prospective applicants, providing guidance on the application process and answering any queries. Interested parties can contact the office directly at [email protected] for more information.

This grant represents a unique opportunity for local organisations in Cork to play an active role in strengthening international ties and showcasing the city’s diverse culture, educational excellence, and community spirit on a global stage.