Westmeath Community Development to Host LEADER Public Funding Information Events for 2023-2027 Programme

Westmeath Community Development (WCD) is pleased to announce two upcoming information sessions for the 2023-2027 LEADER programme, aimed at supporting community groups, private individuals, and enterprises in the county. The events will provide essential insights into the funding opportunities available for local development projects under this highly anticipated programme.

The LEADER programme, a key initiative in rural development, has been running for over 30 years and has delivered significant support to innovative and sustainable projects across Ireland, including Westmeath since 1995. Since its inception, LEADER has contributed to the growth of rural economies, with a focus on job creation, economic development, and community sustainability.

The 2023-2027 LEADER programme is guided by the Local Development Strategy and will operate under three core themes:

• Economic Development & Job Creation
• Rural Infrastructure & Social Inclusion
• Sustainable Development & Climate Change Mitigation & Adaptation

Funding under the new programme will be allocated to projects that align with one or more of the sub-themes under these categories, including the green economy, agricultural diversification, rural tourism, enterprise, social enterprises and food production, social inclusion and accessibility, and climate change adaptation.

The Local Community Development Committee are responsible for the delivery of the Strategy, key stakeholders include Westmeath Community Development as the implementing Partner and Westmeath County Council as the Financial Partner.

Event Details

Westmeath Community Development will host the following events:

• Mullingar: Wednesday, October 1st, 2023, at 7:30pm, Mullingar Park Hotel
• Athlone: Thursday, October 2nd, 2023, at 7:30pm, Radisson Blu Hotel

These sessions will provide an opportunity for attendees to learn about the objectives and goals of the 2023-2027 LEADER programme, as well as the process for applying for funding. Development officers from WCD will be available to discuss the funding criteria and answer any questions from attendees.

“We are excited to introduce this new phase of the LEADER programme, which continues to play a vital role in driving positive change and development in Westmeath,” said a spokesperson for Westmeath Community Development. “Whether you’re a community group with a project idea, a private individual, or an enterprise looking for funding, we encourage you to attend these sessions to learn more about the opportunities available.”

Funding Opportunities

The LEADER programme will offer a total of €4.275 million in funding for the 2023-2027 period. The LEADER 2014-2023 programme saw €7.1million invested in Westmeath. 

More Information

For further details on the funding events, please call 044 9348571 and ask for the LEADER section or email leader@westcd.ie

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