LEADER funding of €5.1m available to Limerick communities

A WHOPPING €5.1million in LEADER funding is available to support rural development projects across the whole of County Limerick.  

Limerick Local Community Development Committee (LCDC) in Partnership with West Limerick Resources is now seeking expressions of interest for funding support. The LEADER programme is a community-led initiative designed to support rural development projects. It aims to improve the quality of life and economic activity in rural areas by funding projects that align with local development strategies.

Supports under LEADER 2023 – 2027 will be provided under three main funding themes: 

Economic Development and Job Creation: Projects that promote rural tourism, enterprise development, agricultural diversification, and the green economy. 

Rural Infrastructure & Social Inclusion: Initiatives that improve rural infrastructure, accessible services, digital connectivity, and support for rural youth. 

Sustainable Development & Climate Change: Efforts focused on environmental sustainability and climate change mitigation and adaptation. 

Mayor of Limerick, John Moran, is welcoming the allocation of funding for Limerick, saying:

“Communities across Limerick know that securing funding is critical to moving projects forward. The €5.1 million in LEADER funding for County Limerick marks a significant investment in our rural towns and villages. The LEADER programme empowers communities to drive forward innovative and impactful initiatives. I invite all local groups, individuals and businesses to engage with West Limerick Resources to learn how this fund can support projects that will have a positive impact on the locality. The fund provides an opportunity to enhance the quality of life and economic vitality of our beautiful rural areas.” 

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The LEADER Programme for County Limerick was officially launched by the Chairperson of the Limerick Local Community Development Committee, Cllr Stephen Keary, at Roots Shop and Café in Kilmeedy, a community run social enterprise established with support of LEADER 2013 - 2022.  

Limerick LCDC Chief Officer, Limerick City and County Council, Seamus O’Connor, commented: “Over the last 30 years, LEADER has supported rural resilience and enabled communities and entrepreneurs to bring innovative projects to life. The new LEADER programme aims to build upon the achievements from the previous programmes and to continue to support new ideas and initiatives from businesses and communities across County Limerick.” 

Communities and businesses across the whole county are encouraged to make contact with West Limerick Resources to discuss their funding needs and find out what LEADER has to offer.  

Manager of West Limerick Resources, Shay Riordan, explained: “LEADER funding is open to all, from community and voluntary groups to private individuals and small to medium enterprises. We would particularly like to hear from areas and communities who have not previously benefitted from LEADER funding or who have not engaged with the programme in a long time.” 

Full details of the new programme will be provided at an upcoming LEADER Funding Information Event scheduled to take place in Fitzgerald’s Woodlands House Hotel in Adare on October 3 at 7.30pm. LEADER development officers will be in attendance to meet individual groups and businesses to provide information, answer questions and schedule follow up meetings to explore proposals in further detail.  

The programme will open with a time limited targeted call across all programme themes. Anyone who wishes to apply for support under this initial call must submit an expression of interest before December 16, 2024.  

Supports will be available from West Limerick Resources throughout the application process and information workshops will be held at various locations around the county to assist those interested. It is highly advisable to make contact as soon as possible to capitalise on the advice and guidance available. 

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