Green Economy LEADER Funding: What Types of Projects Are Eligible?

Many community groups, businesses, and organisations across rural Dublin are already working on projects that support sustainability — without realising they may be eligible for LEADER funding under the Green Economy theme.

Green Economy projects don’t need to be large, technical, or highly specialised. In many cases, they focus on practical improvements that reduce costs, use resources more efficiently, and support long-term sustainability.

Below are some examples of the types of projects that may be supported.

1. Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Projects

Projects that help reduce energy use or integrate renewable energy can fall under the Green Economy theme. This may include:

• Installing solar panels or other renewable energy systems

• Upgrading equipment to reduce energy consumption

• Reducing energy costs for community facilities or businesses

These types of projects often deliver both environmental and financial benefits.

2. Circular and Resource-Efficient Initiatives

Green Economy funding can support projects that aim to reduce waste and make better use of materials and resources, such as:

• Waste reduction or reuse initiatives

• Improving production or operational efficiency

• Introducing more sustainable materials or processes

• Projects that support a circular or local economy

Small changes can have a meaningful impact when they are planned well.

3. Green Products or Services

LEADER funding may also support the testing or development of environmentally friendly products or services, including:

• Pilot projects or feasibility testing

• Developing new low-impact products

• Introducing greener services or delivery models

• Exploring sustainable business ideas

These projects are often about learning, testing, and improving — not just scaling up.

4. Environmental Skills and Capacity Building

Some Green Economy projects focus on building knowledge and skills, for example:

• Training to support sustainable or low-carbon practices

• Upskilling staff, volunteers, or communities

• Developing local capacity to respond to environmental challenges

These projects help ensure long-term impact beyond a single investment.

You Don’t Need a Finished Plan

One of the most common misunderstandings about LEADER funding is that you need a fully developed project or application before getting in touch.

In reality, most LEADER projects start with a conversation.

Our role is to:

• Talk through your idea

• Confirm whether it may be eligible

• Advise on possible next steps

Early engagement can help shape stronger projects and avoid unnecessary work.

Talk to Us Before You Invest

If you are already planning a sustainability project — or considering investing time or money — it’s best to speak with us before decisions are made.

A short, informal discussion can help clarify whether LEADER support may be available and how your project could fit.

Contact Dublin Rural LEADER to arrange a brief conversation about your idea.

📧 rdinfo@fingalleaderpartnership.ie

Supporting Sustainable Rural Communities

Green Economy projects play an important role in supporting resilient, sustainable rural communities across Dublin. Whether your idea is large or small, early-stage or well developed, we encourage you to get in touch and explore the possibilities.