LEADER Programme
Elevate your community or local business
Funding for Rural Communities & Businesses
The LEADER 2023-2027 Programme, co-funded by both the EU and the Department of Rural and Community Development, is a programme to support communities and businesses across Laois to build on what they have in their local area, by overcoming social and economic challenges to protect and enhance their local environment. The Local Development Strategy 2023-2027 was completed in June 2023 and informed by public consultations held from March to May 2023 with communities and stakeholder across Laois. The programme provides financial grants, signposting, feasibility studies and training:
- to support businesses and start-ups expand or develop new products
- to support tourism business throughout Laois
- to communities to develop and progress local initiatives to ensure a vibrant, inclusive place to live, work and thrive
- to build capacity around climate change mitigation, adaption and protection
What themes does the programme prioritise?
- Green and Circular economy businesses
- Agricultural diversification
- Rural Food Production
- Tourism & Recreation
- Rural Economic Development, Enterprise Development & Job Creation
- Social, Community & Cooperative Enterprises
- Rural Infrastructure & Accessible Services
- Youth
- Optimising Digital Connectivity
- Sustainable Development of Rural Environment
- Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation
What funding is available within the programme?
Type of Project |
Community/Charity/Voluntary Committee |
Private/Social Enterprise |
Max Funding |
Capital |
Up to a maximum of 75% |
Up to a maximum of 50% |
€ 200,000 |
Hard To reach Communities in the areas of Graiguecullen, Ballylinan, Errill, Mountrath, Doonane & Borris in Ossory |
Up to a maximum of 90% |
n/a |
€200,000/€500,000 |
Analysis and Development |
Up to a maximum of 90% |
Up to a maximum of 75% |
€ 30,000 |
Training |
Private or Community |
Up to a maximum of 100% |
€ 200,000 |
***LEADER grants work in arrears applicants must have proof of match and bridging funding to apply
A full copy of the LEADER Local Development Strategy 2023-2027 Summary Document can be downloaded here.
You can avail of our supports if you're a business in the sector of Food, Craft, Tourism, Manufacturing, Technology, the Creative Industries, or Social Enterprises.
- Community organisations for the development or upgrading of community and public amenities and buildings
- Upgrading or creation of recreation infrastructure.
- Projects aimed at benefiting specific groups within the community e.g. older people, young people, people living in rural isolation, migrants and people with disabilities
- Development of community-owned renewable energy projects, enhancement & protection of watercourses and biodiversity
You can download the Expression of Interest document to apply for LEADER funding here.
Benefits of working with Laois Partnership
Dedicated Specialist
A specialist will work with you to identify a programme, course & resource to benefit you and guide you through it.
Innovative Approaches
Through initiatives like SICAP & LEADER, LPC employ locally-led strategies to address persistent levels of deprivation.
Comprehensive Services
From childcare and youth programs to mental health and addiction support, we have services tailored to your needs.