Community Foundation Ireland and Business to Arts share a commitment to increasing the visibility of philanthropy and encouraging greater private sector support for the arts.

The Community Foundation Ireland Arts Philanthropy Award celebrates an individual, foundation, trust, or corporate philanthropic organisation whose generosity and leadership have made a meaningful difference to the arts in Ireland.

Recognising the transformative impact of philanthropic support, it honours those who have enabled artistic ambition, strengthened arts organisations, or delivered measurable cultural or social impact.

This year’s recipient will be announced at the Business to Arts Awards ceremony on Monday, 7th September. Ahead of the announcement, we are looking back at previous winners and the remarkable initiatives recognised through this category.

2025 Winner: Tomar Trust

Musician in Residence at St. John's Theatre & Arts Centre. Credit: JK Photography

Tomar Trust was recognised for its support of programmes that increased access to the arts for underrepresented groups and delivered meaningful impact across communities.

Its pioneering collaboration with Music Network and St John’s Theatre established Ireland’s first music residency for a musician with autism. Combining local and national expertise, the initiative included music therapy workshops, professional development opportunities and inclusive public performances.

Underpinned by trust, shared values and a long-term vision, the partnership demonstrated how targeted philanthropic investment can create more inclusive cultural spaces and provide a model for future arts residencies.

2024 Winners: Press Up Group and The Dean Arts Studios

Residents of the Dean Arts Studio present Grá Mór, an interactive performance. Credit: Robert Montgomery

Press Up Group and The Dean Arts Studios were recognised for a philanthropic initiative that provided free studio space to more than 40 artists and arts collectives in central Dublin.

By giving emerging and established practitioners across a range of disciplines access to essential space and resources, the initiative supported artists to develop their work and build a strong creative community.

The programme represented a significant investment in Dublin’s cultural landscape, with participating artists reporting improved wellbeing, greater creative connection and a positive impact on their artistic practice.

As an Awards partner, Community Foundation Ireland believes that access to the arts is an equality issue. We are proud to partner with them once again to recognise the vital role philanthropy plays in supporting artists, arts organisations and communities across Ireland, and we look forward to celebrating this year’s recipient at the Business to Arts Awards in September.

Warmest wishes,

Louise, Valerie, Rachel, Melissa and Nina.