Funding boost for GAA clubs

GAA clubs across Cork are set for a significant funding increase. A newly revamped clubs’draw, which is now called the ‘Rebels’ Bounty’ is designed to maximise return to clubs and is part of the overall drive to raise revenue for reinvestment at local and county level.

The new system will also give clubs an opportunity to generate funds amid ongoing restrictions because of Covid-19.

Details of the new prize draw will be outlined to clubs for consideration in the next number of weeks. The Cork County Board has said it is confident that the new system will provide all clubs with an opportunity to increase their funding through both direct and indirect investment. Due to the current restrictions on meetings, clubs will be briefed on the proposed format through a series of online webinars.

Enhanced prizes, totalling €500,000, and a more progressive incentive scheme for clubs are set to form a significant part of the overhaul. The scheme is designed to ensure clubs get a fairer distribution of funding based on sales.

Cork County Board Chairperson, Tracey Kennedy, said: “The traditional draw stood us well in the past, but we now have a great opportunity to enhance the offering, raise more revenue and deliver that increase back to the clubs. Consumer expectations have changed significantly in recent years, and this traditional fundraising drive is evolving to meet that expectation.

“The Rebels' Bounty will give clubs an opportunity to make up some of the shortfall in fundraising because traditional ‘big-ticket’ events have been restricted by Covid-19. Our focus is on moving forward together, as a county, as clubs and as individual members. Cork GAA does well when our clubs do well and we look forward to formally launching this new fundraising initiative in the weeks ahead.”