National Lottery celebrates more than £1.7 billion awarded to good causes across Northern Ireland

The drop-in event brought together representatives from the Arts Council of Northern Ireland, The National Lottery Community Fund, The National Lottery Heritage Fund and Sport Northern Ireland, giving elected representatives the opportunity to hear first-hand about the difference National Lottery funding is making in their constituencies and throughout the community.

Because of National Lottery players, more than £1.7 billion has been awarded to good causes across Northern Ireland since the first National Lottery draw in 1994, supporting thousands of projects and helping communities to thrive. 

Across Northern Ireland, you’re never too far from a National Lottery funded project, with at least one funded project in every postcode district. It’s a powerful demonstration of just how far that funding has reached, supporting local organisations, protecting treasured places, creating opportunities and continuing to change lives for the better.

From grassroots community organisations and local sports clubs to arts, culture and the protection of the rich heritage, National Lottery funding has reached into communities across the region, helping people turn ideas and ambition into lasting change.

The event provided an opportunity not only to celebrate that impact, but also to look to the future and explore how National Lottery Good Cause funding can continue to support communities in Northern Ireland.

Ahead of the event, First Minister Michelle O'Neill and deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly shared messages recognising the impact of National Lottery funding across Northern Ireland.

First Minister, Michelle O’Neill, commented: “For more than three decades, National Lottery funding has made a real and lasting difference to people across our communities. More than £1.7 billion has supported community groups, grassroots sport, arts, culture and our shared heritage.  Behind that investment are dedicated people working every day to make their communities better places to live. The dedication of these organisations and volunteers, together with the support of the National Lottery Players continues to have a positive impact on people’s lives and the communities they call home. That is a legacy to be proud of.”

Deputy First Minister, Emma Little-Pengelly, said: “National Lottery funding has made a significant impact across Northern Ireland supporting arts, sport, heritage and community initiatives that enrich lives and brings people together. From bustling towns and cities to rural communities, this funding is empowering people, helping individuals and organisations create stronger, more connected places where communities can thrive. It is supporting those who understand local needs to drive positive change, build for the future, and celebrate what makes their communities so special. The benefits are felt every day and that is something we can all recognise and celebrate.”

Kate Beggs, Chair of The National Lottery Forum Northern Ireland and Director for Northern Ireland at The National Lottery Community Fund, added: “We are incredibly proud of the difference National Lottery funding continues to make across Northern Ireland. The funding raised thanks to National Lottery players represents an incredible investment in our people, places and communities, but the real impact goes far beyond the number. Every grant has a story behind it, whether that is a community responding to local challenges, an organisation creating new opportunities, or people coming together to make where they live stronger and more connected. It was fantastic to bring our Good Cause Distributors together at Stormont and celebrate that collective impact.”

Representatives attending the event were also able to learn more about future funding opportunities and speak directly with the organisations responsible for distributing National Lottery funding across Northern Ireland.

More than 31 years after the first National Lottery draw, the event offered an opportunity to celebrate what has already been achieved while recognising the potential for National Lottery funding to continue changing lives and strengthening communities for generations to come.

And it is all made possible by National Lottery players.