Waterford LEADER Partnership CLG (WLP) 2023-2027 LEADER Programme
Waterford LEADER Partnership CLG (WLP) is thrilled to launch the 2023-2027 LEADER Programme. LEADER is a community-led approach to local development, funded through Ireland’s CAP Strategic Plan 2023-2027. Since its inception in 1991, LEADER has become a cornerstone of EU rural development policy.
What is LEADER?
LEADER supports private enterprises and community groups in enhancing the quality of life and economic activity in rural areas. WLP CLG is the implementing partner for the County Waterford Local Community Development Committee (LCDC), managing the administration, animation, and delivery of the LEADER Programme in County Waterford.
Local Development Strategy (LDS)
The Local Development Strategy (LDS) is a plan created by rural communities through their Local Action Group (LAG) to support sustainable development. WLP will implement the LDS 2023-2027 for County Waterford, developed through consultations with communities and businesses to identify priority funding areas.
For more details, please refer to the LEADER Information Booklet, which summarises the LDS and WLP’s areas of focus.
Project Eligibility
To be eligible for LEADER funding, a project must:
- Align with the actions outlined in the approved LDS for the geographical area concerned.
- Comply with EU Regulations and Operating Rules for the programme.
Details of ineligible sectors and activities are listed in the 2023-2027 LEADER Operating Rules, available on the LEADER website: www.gov.ie/LEADER.
Project Promoter Eligibility
A project promoter can be an individual, group, or other body (e.g., company) that submits a funding application to WLP CLG. Successful applicants will receive a contract to deliver the approved project. Promoters must demonstrate the ability to provide matching contributions to meet the full project costs and ensure operational status for five years from the final LEADER grant payment.
How to Apply for LEADER Funding
Prospective promoters are encouraged to contact WLP CLG to discuss project eligibility and potential funding. The WLP Project Officer will provide guidance on the mandatory Information Workshop, which outlines the application process for funding. Attendance at an Information Workshop is required before completing an Expression of Interest (EOI) form. For a comprehensive description of the application process, please refer to the LEADER explanatory booklet.
LEADER Themes and Sub-Themes
Priority areas for funding in County Waterford are in bold below:
Theme 1 – Economic Development and Job Creation
- The Green Economy
- Agricultural Diversification
- Rural Tourism & Recreation
- Enterprise Development
- Rural Food Production
- Social, Community & Cooperative Enterprises
Theme 2 – Rural Infrastructure & Social Inclusion
- Rural Infrastructure
- Accessible Services
- Optimising Digital Connectivity
- Rural Youth
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
Contact Information
To discuss potential projects, please contact:
- Ms Claire Connors (Project Officer) on +353(58)51505 / +353(87)2311062
- Ms Christine Rossi (CEO & Project Officer) on +353(58)54646
Project Grant Aid
The table below outlines the maximum LEADER grant aid available for various project types. The minimum grant amount is €5,000, and the maximum is €200,000. The rate of aid offered is considered on a project-by-project basis, and the top rate may not always be recommended.
| Type of Project | Applicant | Maximum Rate of Aid | Maximum Funding |
|---|---|---|---|
| Community Projects not involving Economic Activity | Community | Up to 75% | €500,000 |
| Community Projects involving Economic Activity | Community | Up to 75% | €200,000 |
| Investment & other supports (including promotion undertaken as part of the implementation of a project) | Private | Up to 75% | €200,000 |
| Investment & other supports (including promotion undertaken as part of the implementation of a project) | Community | Up to 75% | €200,000 |
| Community under accessible services sub-theme targeted at hard to reach communities | Community | Up to 90% | – |
| Analysis and Development | Private | Up to 90% | €30,000 |
| Analysis and Development | Community | Up to 90% | – |
| Training | Private or Community | Up to 100% | €200,000 |
Types of Funding Available
Eligible projects can apply for assistance for Capital, including Equipment, Analysis & Development, Co-operation projects, Marketing, and Training.
Note: Any project activity undertaken or started before the application or the date of the signed acceptance of the contract will not be eligible for LEADER funding. Ensure all project activities commence only after formal approval and contract signing to qualify for funding.
LEADER Funding Checklist for Promoters
Throughout the application process, project promoters must:
- Adhere to EU Regulations, 2023-2027 LEADER Operating Rules, and Local Development Strategy.
- Ensure compliance with all statutory requirements, e.g., procurement rules, local planning regulations, etc.
- Inform the LAG of any unforeseen changes with the approved project.
- Comply with information and publicity requirements for LEADER funded projects.
- Retain and provide all necessary documentation for inspections and/or audit purposes.
- Operate as funded for five years from the date of final LEADER grant payment.
- Remain in contact with the LEADER project development officer.
Note: The above list is not exhaustive, and other criteria will also apply.
The LEADER Programme in County Waterford is co-funded by the Department of Rural and Community Development and the European Union. LEADER is financed by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD).
For further information on LEADER, visit www.gov.ie/LEADER.
