LEADER
Development led by local communities
LEADER 2023-2027 Programme
LEADER is a community-led approach to local development, funded through Ireland’s CAP Strategic Plan 2023 – 2027. It is financed by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD).
The LEADER Programme has been in operation since the 1990’s and over the past 30 years, it has supported the development of a wide range of innovative and sustainable projects that have brought increased jobs and vibrancy to rural communities across the county.
LEADER supports locally identified initiatives that seek to address locally identified needs and challenges. The vision of Local Development Strategy for 2023-2027 LEADER is “A county with an active and inclusive society, supported by strong communities and a vibrant sustainable economy, with equal access to basic services whilst safeguarding our environment including its biodiversity and water resources and addressing the challenges associated with climate change”.
The Strategy outlines the aims and objectives for Westmeath under the specific themes and sub-themes for 2023-2027 LEADER which include;
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
To discuss your proposal or to request an Expressions of Interest please contact a member of the LEADER Team in: Westmeath Community Development by phone on 044 9348571 or email: leader@westcd.ie
