ICT Grant Funding 2026: What Irish Schools Can Use It For

‍What Is the ICT Grant Funding 2026?‍

The ICT Grant Funding forms part of the Department of Education’s Digital Strategy for Schools. In 2026, funding is paid directly to school bank accounts, without the need for an application.

Schools are expected to:

• Have an up-to-date Digital Learning Plan
• Use funding for approved ICT infrastructure
• Retain records of expenditure for accountability

What Can ICT Grant Funding Be Used For?

ICT Grant funding can be used for ICT infrastructure that supports teaching and learning. Common approved categories include:

Classroom Technology

• Interactive boards and flat panels
• Projectors and display technologies
• Teaching computers and class room devices
  
  

Devices for Learners

• Laptops, tablets, or shared devices
• Equipment supporting differentiated learning
  
  

Printing & ICT Infrastructure

• Printers and multifunction devices
•  Networking equipment and cabling
• ICT equipment supporting class room and school operations
  
  

Software & Digital Platforms

• Learning platforms and cloud-based tools
• Education software and applications
  
  

What the ICT Grant Cannot Be Used For

While the ICT grant is flexible, it is limited to ICT infrastructure. Schools should avoid using funding for:

• General building works
• Furniture not linked to ICT
•  Non-digital classroom equipment
  

Spending should always align with the school’s Digital Learning Plan.

Why Planning Matters

Many schools make ICT purchases reactively, which can lead to:

• Inconsistent classroom technology
• Limited teacher adoption
• Higher long-term support effort
  

Planning ICT grant spend early allows schools to:

• Make confident, compliant decisions
• Align technology with teaching needs
  
  

Avoid rushed or fragmented purchases

Checklist: Is a Purchase Suitable for ICT Grant Funding?

Before committing ICT grant funding, schools should ask:

• Does this support teaching, learning, or assessment?
• Is it included in our Digital Learning Plan?
• Can we justify this spend if reviewed?
• Is installation, training, and support considered?
  
  

If the answer is yes, the purchase is likely appropriate.

ICT Grant Funding 2026 offers schools a valuable opportunity to strengthen digital learning environments. The key is not simply spending the funding, but planning it well.

Bryan S Ryan supports Irish schools in planning and delivering classroom technology that works in practice, including Prowise interactive boards and reliable, cost-effective printing solutions. For schools looking for guidance at the planning stage, you can email salessupport@bsr.ie or call (01) 404 7900 to speak with the team.