Note: Applications for LEADER funding are accepted on a rolling basis.

Funding programme

LEADER is a community-led approach to local rural development funded through Ireland’s CAP Strategic Plan 2023 – 2027.

Call overview

The LEADER programme is administered at a local level by Local Action Groups (LAGs), which contain local representatives from the community, public and private sector. Each group is responsible for selecting and awarding LEADER funding to projects within their geographical area in accordance with the Local Development Strategies (LDS) they develop themselves.

LEADER funding is available to private businesses or community-based groups in rural areas. Rural areas are defined as all parts of Ireland outside the city boundaries of Dublin, Waterford, Cork, Limerick, and Galway. All areas outside of these boundaries are eligible.

Call detail

The LEADER programme accepts applications based on projects which improve:

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Theme 1 - Economic Development and Job Creation

• The Green Economy
• Agricultural Diversification
• Rural Tourism & Recreation
• Enterprise Development
• Rural Food Production
• Social, Community & Cooperative Enterprises

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Theme 2 - Rural Infrastructure & Social Inclusion

• Rural Infrastructure
• Accessible Services
• Optimising Digital Connectivity
• Rural Youth

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Theme 3 - Sustainable Development of the Rural Environment and Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation

• Sustainable Development of the Rural Environment
• Climate Change Capacity Building
• Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation

‍Types of projects funded

LEADER funds the following project types:

·      Community Projects not involving Economic Activity

·      Community Projects involving Economic Activity

·      Investment and other supports (including promotion undertaken as part of the implementation of a project)

·       Analysis and Development

·      Training

Eligibility                   

Private businesses or community-based groups in rural areas are eligible to apply. Rural areas are defined as all parts of Ireland outside the city boundaries of Dublin, Waterford, Cork, Limerick, and Galway. All areas outside of these boundaries are eligible.

In addition, a proposed project must be compatible with the actions outlined in the approved Local Development Strategy in the geographical area concerned, and it must comply with the EU Regulations and Operating Rules in place for the programme.

Budget

The maximum LEADER grant aid that may be awarded for various project types is as follows:

• Community Projects not involving Economic Activity - €500,000
• Community Projects involving Economic Activity - €200,000
• Investment and other supports (including promotion undertaken as part of the implementation of a project) - €200,000
• Analysis and Development - €30,000
• Training - €200,000

How to apply

Prospective applicants should contact their Local Action Group through its Implementing Partner (where applicable) to register an expression of interest and discuss the eligibility of a project proposal and the funding that may be available.

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