daa, the operator of Dublin Airport, has announced the launch of its Elevate '25 School Support Programme, a one-off initiative as part of Dublin Airport’s 85th anniversary year celebrations aimed at enhancing the educational environment for local primary and secondary schools. With a significant allocation of €2 million, this programme underscores daa's commitment to supporting local communities around Dublin Airport and fostering educational development.
The Elevate '25 programme will provide funding for a wide range of projects, including environmental and sustainability initiatives, educational supports, sports and recreation facilities, and health, wellbeing, and social inclusion projects. daa has contacted all eligible schools within the catchment area, in North Dublin and East Meath which spans from Rush to Ratoath and from Tyrrelstown to Donabate, and these schools can apply for grants through the dedicated online portal.
Gary McLean, Dublin Airport’s Managing Director, expressed his enthusiasm for the programme:
"Loads of kids in communities around the airport grew up to work at the airport, as many of their parents and friends did before them over the past 85 years. The schools in our community foster curiosity and creativity in kids and set them up for the future. We want to give back to the community by improving the school environment - and hopefully investing in some of Dublin Airport's future employees. It's not just about the money; it's about creating opportunities for students and teachers to thrive and achieve their best. So we can't wait to see those applications rolling in so we can help and leave a legacy in this Dublin Airport’s 85th anniversary year."
Andrea Carroll, daa’s Director of Sustainability, added:
"Elevate ‘25 is the latest step in daa’s ongoing programme to promote positive developments in education, literacy, sports and the arts in our local communities. By investing €2 million in projects that promote educational excellence, environmental stewardship, and social inclusion, we are not only supporting the schools but also nurturing the future leaders of our community. We look forward to seeing the innovative and impactful projects that will come to life through this initiative."
The programme kicked off with pre-launch engagement with selected schools in April and May, followed by today’s official launch. The application window will remain open until September 26, 2025 with successful applicants being notified in November. The programme will culminate in a celebration event in November 2026, where representatives and students from participating schools will gather to showcase their completed projects.
Department of Education primary and second level schools located in the catchment area are eligible to apply. The catchment area includes areas of North Dublin and East Meath extending from Rush in the northeast to Ratoath in the northwest; Tyrrelstown in the west to Ballymun in the south; and Portmarnock to Donabate in the east.
There are two main categories of support, namely projects up to €10,000 and projects over €10,000. Examples of projects that may be supported by the programme include:
- Environment and sustainability initiatives such as external classrooms or horticultural learning areas;
- Education supports like STEAM equipment, whiteboards and smartboards;
- Sports and recreation equipment, theatre equipment or school enhancement projects such as art installations; and
- Health, wellbeing and social inclusion initiatives like sensory rooms, after-school club facilities and inclusive play areas.
For more information on the Elevate '25 School Support Programme, click here.
