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What is LEADER?

LEADER is a community-led rural development programme funded through Ireland’s CAP Strategic Plan 2023–2027. It supports locally driven projects that boost employment, inclusion, sustainability, and vibrant rural communities, delivered through Local Action Groups implementing local development strategies.

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Core Purpose

LEADER helps strengthen the rural economy and improve quality of life in rural areas. It supports local ideas that promote innovation, sustainability, social inclusion and strong, viable communities. Economic growth, job creation and the sustainable use of local resources are at the heart of this work.

For further information on LEADER, see the LEADER Rural Development section on Gov.ie and the LEADER Programme 2023–2027 information provided by Pobal.

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How Does it Work?

Dublin Rural LEADER provides funding to enterprises and community groups across the rural areas of Fingal, South Dublin County, and Dún Laoghaire–Rathdown.

Projects are assessed and selected by the Local Action Group (LAG), a representative body made up of public and private sector members from the three local authority areas.

The Dublin LAG oversees and is responsible for the overall delivery of the Dublin Rural LEADER programme.

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Grant Rates

The grant rates that individuals can apply for is up to a maximum of 75% for capital projects, this is at the discretion of the LAG. A grant rate of up to 90% can be applied for in relation to Analysis and development projects. Again this is at the discretion of the LAG. Finally individuals can apply for up to 100% for training projects.

Got a Project Idea?

Who LEADER Supports

LEADER provides support to a wide range of people, groups and enterprises who are working to improve rural life. Funding is available to those who have ideas, projects or initiatives that can strengthen their local community, develop the rural economy or protect the environment. Groups who can apply include:

  • Individuals or a group of promoters with a viable rural enterprise idea.

  • Rural Businesses (Micro / SME’s) wishing to expand or diversify.

  • Farmers & farm families wishing to diversify into new activities including Artisan Food Production, Rural Tourism & Farm Shops.

  • Community groups, voluntary groups or registered charities can, and are, encouraged to make applications to the LEADER Rural Development programme.

  • Social Enterprise groups and cooperative societies promoting community enterprise.

  • The grant rates that individuals can apply for is up to a maximum of 75% for capital projects, this is at the discretion of the LAG. A grant rate of up to 90% can be applied for in relation to Analysis and development projects. Again this is at the discretion of the LAG. Finally individuals can apply for up to 100% for training projects.

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Got a project idea? We’d love to hear from you.

From the first conversation to submitting your application, the Dublin Rural LEADER team is here to guide you through the entire process with clear advice, hands-on support, and a friendly approach. No experience? No problem.

Email: rdinfo@fingalleaderpartnership.ie

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