Supporting Learner Success: OCN Launches 2026 Grants Programme
Open College Network Northern Ireland (OCN) has announced the launch of its 2026 Centre Learning Grants Programme, with up to £50,000 in funding available for OCN recognised centres to support learner-focused initiatives and projects. Since the programme was established, OCN has awarded over £350,000 worth of funding to its recognised centres across Northern Ireland.
OCN works with over 350 education and training organisations including Schools, Colleges and Voluntary and Charitable Organisations.
Grants ranging from £500 - £3,000 will be awarded by the independent educational charity to help fund impactful learner initiatives.
Now in its fifth year, the Centre Learning Grants Programme was established by the OCN Board of Trustees to help fulfil the organisation's charitable objectives.
The programme is designed to encourage innovation, enrich the learning experience, and support learner progression. By funding innovative approaches and initiatives, OCN aims to foster an environment where learners can thrive and achieve their full potential.
Organisations that benefited from the 2025 Centre Learning Grants Programme included ASCERT, Blackwater Integrated College, Nerve Centre, Omagh High School, YouthAction NI, Start 360, NOW, and The Advantage Foundation among others.
Martin Flynn, Chief Executive of OCN said: "This is the fifth year of our Centre Learning Grants Programme and we anticipate another year of strong responses from our very deserving centres across Northern Ireland.
The grants programme provides a unique opportunity for education, voluntary and charitable organisations to access additional funding to enhance their provision and develop new approaches that support learner success.
This year, we will award grants between £500 - £3,000 to support projects that demonstrate clear learner impact and uphold the OCN mission and vision. We are particularly interested in initiatives that provide robust evidence of how learning can positively influence individuals, families and communities.”
Kate Fleck Chair of the OCN Grants Committee, said: “OCN’s Centre Learning Grants Programme has become an integral part of our community support network across Northern Ireland. Delivering this programme each year reflects our ongoing commitment to advancing education for the benefit of the wider public.
I have seen first-hand the positive impact these grants have had across a wide range of learners and OCN centres. Over recent years, the programme has played an important role in helping to engage, enrich and equip learners with the skills they need for life. I would strongly encourage eligible centres to apply and take advantage of this opportunity.”
Applications for the 2026 Grants programme opened on Monday 18th May and will close at midnight Sunday 14th June 2026.
For more information and to apply for funding from OCN’s Centre Learning Grants programme visit: OCN NI Centre Learning Grants
