In a major step forward for grassroots sports in Ireland and further afield, Clubforce – the leading sports club management and fundraising platform – has unveiled a new tool aimed at tackling one of the biggest modern challenges for local clubs: the decline of cash.

The new feature, Clubforce Tap to Pay, allows volunteers, coaches, and supporters to instantly collect digital donations using only their mobile phones.

With no additional hardware or complicated setup required, the technology enables on-the-spot payments whether at the sideline, in the clubhouse, or even during training sessions.

The move comes as fewer people carry physical money. Research shows that 20% of Irish adults no longer carry cash at all, and half of 18-24 year olds rely exclusively on digital payment methods.

As a result, grassroots clubs are increasingly missing out on everyday fundraising opportunities – from bucket collections to raffle ticket sales.

“We know the pressure that comes with keeping a grassroots club going,” said Noel Murray, CEO of Clubforce. “Tap to Pay gives clubs a frictionless way to collect funds wherever they are – on their terms. It’s simple, secure, and built for how people pay today.”

Early results are promising. Salthill Knocknacarra GAA in Galway saw a 43% increase in playslip entries for their club draw after adopting the Tap to Pay system.

“The introduction of the Clubforce Tap to Pay app has been a real game-changer for us,” said Chair Alan Hassett. “It’s made fundraising at the club faster, easier, and more secure.”

Hassett noted that while traditional cash collections had begun to dip, Tap to Pay has helped reverse that trend by offering a modern solution with all the benefits of in-person fundraising – combined with the efficiencies of online systems like auto-renewals and automatic ticket entry.

The new feature is just one part of a broader rollout planned by Clubforce in 2025. The company is focused on streamlining the work of club volunteers, allowing them to spend less time on admin and more time developing players and building community.

With over €500 million raised through its platform to date, Clubforce continues to position itself as a critical player in sustaining and growing grassroots sport across Ireland.

 

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