Culture minister Catherine Martin has announced a new restart grant scheme for venues, producers and promoters that stage events in the arts and culture live performance sector.

The minister (pictured) said that €15m is being made available under the new Live Performance Restart Grant Scheme (LPRGS).

“Now that Covid restrictions are behind us, I want to support operators in the sector to get back to what they do best,” she added.

“I have seen how important the 2021 Live Performance Support Scheme was in providing employment opportunities for businesses to engage the services of artists, musicians, technicians, producers, and other professional practitioners.

“I know how difficult the past two years has been for those operating in the live performance sector. Since the lifting of restrictions on January 22nd it has been wonderful to see so many gigs, theatre events and other live performances going ahead.

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“I know that challenges remain, and this new business restart grant is designed to help the sector to recover fully, and get back to full capacity as soon as possible”

Grants of up to €100,000 will be provided, and  The scheme will open for applications via an online portal on March 22. Martin’s department clarified that applications will be considered by order of date and time of receipt by the department.

All applicants must be able to demonstrate that their turnover, for any consecutive 12 month period from 1 January 2020 – 31 December 2021, was no more than 40% of their turnover prior to the introduction of Covid restrictions, with reference to either 2018, 2019 or 2020.

VAT exclusive turnover excludes Covid supports such as EWSS, PUP, CRSS etc.

All applicants will also be required to provide their most recent audited accounts and accounts for their reference year.