Waterford LEADER Partnership (WLP) CLG is proud to deliver the 2023–2027 LEADER Programme, 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, enabling communities to shape their own futures.
Empowering Communities. Driving Sustainable Development.
Overview
The LEADER Programme supports projects that promote economic growth, social inclusion, and environmental sustainability across rural County Waterford. Funding is available for individuals, community groups, and enterprises that align with the Local Development Strategy (LDS).
Local Development Strategy (LDS)
The County Waterford LDS 2023–2027 is a community-driven plan developed through consultations with local communities and businesses. It identifies priority areas for funding and ensures that development is sustainable and inclusive.
For more details, download the LEADER Information BookletLEADER 2023 – 2027 Information Booklet English Version.
Themes & Sub-Themes
Funding priorities for County Waterford fall under three main themes:
Theme 1 – Economic Development & Job Creation
- The Green Economy
- Agricultural Diversification
- Rural Tourism & Recreation
- Enterprise Development
- Rural Food Production
- Social, Community & Co-operative Enterprises
Theme 2 – Rural Infrastructure & Social Inclusion
- Rural Infrastructure
- Accessible Services
- Optimising Digital Connectivity
- Rural Youth
Theme 3 – Environment & Climate Action
- Sustainable Development of the Rural Environment
- Climate Change Capacity Building
- Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation
Funding Details
Eligible projects can apply for assistance for:
✔ Capital investment (including equipment)
✔ Analysis & Development
✔ Co-operation projects
✔ Marketing
✔ Training
Important: Activities started before formal approval and contract signing are not eligible for funding.
Grant Aid Table
| Type of Project | Applicant | Max Rate of Aid | Max Funding |
|---|---|---|---|
| Community projects (non-economic) | Community | Up to 75% | €500,000 |
| Community projects (economic activity) | Community | Up to 75% | €200,000 |
| Investment & other supports | Private | Up to 75% | €200,000 |
| Investment & other supports | Community | Up to 75% | €200,000 |
| Accessible services for hard-to-reach communities | Community | Up to 90% | – |
| Analysis & Development | Private | Up to 90% | €30,000 |
| Analysis & Development | Community | Up to 90% | – |
| Training | Private or Community | Up to 100% | €200,000 |
How to Apply
- Contact WLP CLG to discuss your project idea
- Attend a mandatory Information Workshop
- Complete an Expression of Interest (EOI) form
- Submit your full application
Download theLEADER 2023 – 2027 Information Booklet English Versionfor full details.
Checklist for Promoters
✔ Comply with EU Regulations and LDS
✔ Follow procurement and planning rules
✔ Notify WLP of any changes
✔ Meet publicity requirements
✔ Retain documentation for audits
✔ Operate as funded for five years after final payment
Contact Us
To discuss your project:
- Claire Connors (Project Officer)
📞 +353 (58) 51505 / +353 (87) 2311062 - Christine Rossi (CEO & Project Officer)
📞 +353 (58) 54646
Co-Funding
The LEADER Programme in County Waterford is co-funded by the Department of Rural and Community Development, the Gaeltacht, and the European Union through the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD).
For further information on LEADER, visit www.gov.ie/LEADER.
