Every valid application is assessed according to the following criteria:
- Extent to which the project will increase the levels of active participation/ improved standards of sporting performance, especially among women and older citizens
- Level of socioeconomic disadvantage in the area
- Technical merits of the project
- Financial viability of project
- Level of own funding available
- Extent to which applicant will be able to maintain project after completion
- Current and planned levels of sport and/or recreational sport facilities in the area
- Current or proposed sharing of facilities with other sporting groups or schools
- Level of SCP (or other Government) funding received in the past
- Strategies to be used to attract people from disadvantaged areas
- Priority of proposed improvements/ facility in relation to existing facilities.
National and regional projects are also assessed on 4 additional criteria:
- Priority as identified by the relevant National Governing Body of Sport (NGB)
- Priority as identified by the Irish Sports Council (NGB and third level only)
- Location of facility within the network of national, regional and municipal multi-sport facilities
- Linkages with Local Authorities Swimming Pools Programme (municipal multi-sport only)
Allocations also take account of county populations.