JOAN TRIMBLE BURSARY AWARDS
The Joan Trimble Awards, administered by The Fermanagh Trust, were set up in 2002 in memory of the Enniskillen-born musician and composer. Established by her family, the Awards recognise Joan’s lifelong commitment to County Fermanagh and their purpose is to encourage the involvement of young people in creativity, the performing arts and Irish culture.
WHAT THE FUND SUPPORTS
Bursaries for individuals up to and including 25 years of age to support training, education and practical experience in the fields of the creative/performing arts and Irish culture. This includes: specialist education training sessions and courses; international cultural programmes; participation in master classes and summer schools.
To qualify, applicants must be living in Fermanagh, or be / have been in full time education in County Fermanagh, or at University/in Higher Education but officially resident in Fermanagh.
Successful applicants are eligible to apply for a further award after 12 months has elapsed from the date of an award being made.
THE FUND DOES NOT SUPPORT
Fees or subsistence for 3rd level education.
Applications from groups, schools, or colleges of further education, or programmes which would normally be grant-aided by a statutory body. Fund statutory provisions and lessons.
HOW THE AWARDS ARE MANAGED
The Awards are administered by the Fermanagh Trust.
An advisory group agrees the distribution of bursary awards. The advisory group’s decision is final, and no correspondence can be entered into.
There is no minimum grant, and bursaries up to a maximum of £1,000 per academic year are available to individuals. In exceptional circumstances, a higher award may be considered.
APPLICATION PROCESS
Before applying please read the grant guidelines:
Closing date for applications:
12 noon Friday 20th November 2026
The project SHOULD NOT be taking place within 2 months of the application deadline. A response will be given to applicants within one month of the relevant deadline. Two individuals with personal knowledge of the applicant’s experience and attainment are required. They must be independent referees and not related to the applicant.
No retrospective applications.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION:
Please contact Lauri McCusker at The Fermanagh Trust for more information, or if you are unsure whether your application falls within the guidelines.
Fermanagh Trust
Fermanagh House
Broadmeadow Place
Enniskillen
Co Fermanagh
BT74 7HR
Tel No. 028 66 320210 Fax No. 028 66 320230
Email: secretary@fermanaghtrust.org
The Fermanagh Trust will not discuss, or fund applications submitted by professional fundraising consultants on behalf of local groups. We are committed to building the capacity of grass roots organisation’s and are here to help voluntary committee members directly.
RECENT BURSARY AWARDS
The latest recipients of the Joan Trimble Bursary Awards showcase a diverse range of musical and performing arts talents across Fermanagh. Several young musicians received support to advance training, including Lana Francesca McArdle, Jessica Elise McArdle and Isaac Milligan. Ava Crudden will use her award to attend a masterclass at Belfast Trad Fest. Other award recipients include Rory Blake and Classical singing student April McGuigan.
In addition to music, the bursary awards are also supporting performers in drama and professional musicianship. Luchia McCusker received a bursary to participate in a youth drama company in London. Luke Beirne received an award to support his performance setup and Peter McMahon, was also a beneficiary in the latest round of awards. The awards continue the legacy of Joan Trimble by providing young artists with valuable opportunities to develop their skills and achieve their aspirations.
© 2024 Fermanagh Trust