Horse Sport Ireland (HSI) has announced that almost €600,000 will be awarded to 86 equestrian bodies, societies and show organisations across the equestrian community in the 2025 Breeding Grant Scheme, funded by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM).

This year's budget has increased to €595,820, an almost €80,000 increase from 2024. The scheme provides prize money to an array of young horse classes at shows all over the country.

Minister of State at DAFM, Timmy Dooley, was joined by HSI chief executive, Denis Duggan, and the head of breeding, innovation and development, Dr Sonja Egan, in Banner Equestrian Centre, Co. Clare, to announce the allocation of this year's funds.

Speaking at the launch, Minister Dooley said: "I am very pleased to be here with Horse Sport Ireland and a selection of show organisers as we announce the 2025 Breeding Grant initiative.

"It is a testament to applicants, and to the funding provided by DAFM as delivered by HSI, that this €600,000 is the highest amount provided to this initiative and I was very pleased also that there are 86 successful applicants," he added.

According to Minister Dooley, Ireland's sport horse industry is in a healthy position and the extra funding will only serve to strengthen that position.

Speaking at the launch, Duggan outlined how the demand for the scheme continues to rise each year, with over 100 applicants for funding in 2025.

"This funding plays a pivotal role in the breeding and production of the next generation of Irish horses by supporting young horse classes at rural shows," Duggan said.

"These shows provide schooling and production opportunities for breeders and producers of young horses," he added.

The HSI said that the grant hones in on the breeding and production of young horses, while providing opportunities for breeders and producers throughout the country to produce and add value to their horses.