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| 23 Apr 2026 | |
| Written by Mark Hughes | |
| Charity Sector News |
The National Lottery has announced the launch of its new Good Cause Legends competition, celebrating individuals, groups and organisations across Ireland who are making an extraordinary difference in their communities.
The launch coincides with new research revealing that Paul McGrath has been named Ireland’s ultimate living legend, with 27 percent of people selecting him in a national survey. However, the findings also highlight that being a legend in Ireland goes far beyond fame. Over a third of respondents said a legend is someone who quietly helps others without recognition, while 70 percent said local legends make them feel proud, inspired and more connected to their communities.
Through the Good Cause Legends initiative, the National Lottery aims to shine a light on these everyday heroes, the people and projects delivering real impact at a local level, many of whom are supported through National Lottery Good Causes funding.
Eligible organisations and individuals who received Good Cause funding between 2021 and 2025 are invited to apply. Entries are open until Friday 22 May at the National Lottery website.
Awards will be made across three categories
Nine winners, three in each category, will each receive 15000 euro and a bespoke trophy in recognition of their contribution.
Speaking at the launch, National Lottery CEO Cian Murphy said the initiative is about recognising the legendary work happening in every corner of Ireland, noting that 239 million euro was raised for Good Causes in 2024 alone thanks to player support.
Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Services, Reform and Digitisation, Jack Chambers, also welcomed the initiative, highlighting the long standing impact of Good Causes funding across communities, from sport and youth services to arts, heritage and social supports.
Recognising the impact of Good Causes
At Charities Institute Ireland, we see first hand the transformative role that National Lottery funding plays across the charity and community sector. Nearly 30 cent in every 1 euro spent on National Lottery games goes directly to Good Causes, with more than 6.5 billion euro raised since its establishment.
Mark Hughes, Director of Membership and Communications at Charities Institute Ireland, said:
“ The National Lottery continues to play a vital role in supporting communities and charities across Ireland. Through its Good Causes funding, it enables organisations of all sizes to deliver meaningful impact where it matters most.
The Good Cause Legends initiative is a powerful way to recognise the people behind that impact, the individuals, volunteers and organisations whose work strengthens communities every day. We would strongly encourage eligible charities and community groups to apply and share their stories.”
The nine Good Cause Legends of 2026 will be announced over the summer months.
