APPLICATIONS for the Equine Technical Support and Equine Breeding Scheme 2026 are now open after being launched by the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Martin Heydon TD.

This scheme supports the development of the equine industry through targeted investment under three programme headings: General Programme, Training and Education and, finally, Research into Equine Diseases.

“I am delighted to announce the launch of the Equine Technical and Equine Breeding Scheme 2026, representing an investment of €854,000 in the Irish equine sector,” Minister Heydon said.

“This funding reflects my department’s continued commitment to supporting a sector that plays such an important role in the rural economy and in the social and cultural fabric of Ireland.

“This scheme provides targeted support for a range of equine industry projects. In 2025, funding was awarded to 11 organisations to deliver 46 innovative projects across studbook development, breeding, education and research into equine diseases. I look forward to approving further projects under the 2026 scheme that will strengthen and sustain the long-term growth of this important sector.”

Successful 2025 applicants included the Connemara Pony Breeders’ Society, Horse Sport Ireland, Warmblood Studbook of Ireland, Kerry Bog Pony Society, Irish Harness Racing Association, University College Dublin, the Irish Equine Centre, Irish Horse Board (IHB), Connemara Pony World and The Irish Field’s Artificial Intelligence in the Equine Sector Seminar.

Applicants must comply with specific terms and conditions of each programme and projects must be completed and reported on in late 2026. The closing date for receipt of applications is 5pm on Friday, December 12th, 2025.

Further details on the scheme, including a copy of the terms and conditions of each programme are available on the Department’s website under ‘Equine Support Scheme’.

For further information on the scheme, contact the Livestock Breeding, Production and Trade Division, Cavan by email at ets@agriculture.gov.ie or by phone on 049 4368242.