LEADER Rural Development Programme
About Rural Development Programme
The LEADER programme is a community-led rural development initiative with more than three decades of impact across Ireland and the European Union. Funded through Ireland’s CAP Strategic Plan 2023-2027 via the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD), it provides grant funding to community groups, social enterprises, and businesses working to strengthen rural areas through infrastructure, social inclusion, and environmental sustainability.
In County Donegal, LEADER is delivered by DLDC across our catchment area, with a dedicated team of Project Officers working locally in North, South, and East Donegal. Grants of up to €200,000 are available per project, with funding rates of 75% for community applicants and 50% for private promoters. Projects must align with the objectives of the Local Development Strategy (LDS) and be located within the DLDC catchment area, which excludes Inishowen, the Gaeltacht, and the Islands.
Whether your project is at the early idea stage or ready to move forward, our team can help you shape your proposal, confirm eligibility, and guide you through the application process from start to finish.
What We Fund
LEADER supports projects that make a tangible difference to life in rural Donegal. Our two current funding calls focus on areas where investment can have the greatest long-term impact: improving rural infrastructure and social inclusion, and advancing environmental sustainability and climate action.
All applications begin with an Expression of Interest form, which you can request by contacting our team at rdpleader@dldc.org or reaching out directly to the Project Officer for your area. Our officers are based locally and know their catchment areas well, making them the best starting point for anyone considering a LEADER application.
Rural Infrastructure and Social Inclusion
This funding strand supports projects that improve access to services, enhance rural infrastructure, and promote social inclusion in rural communities. Priority is given to projects that support young people, enable rural living and working, and address barriers faced by disadvantaged groups. Community applicants can apply for grants of up to €200,000, with up to 75% of eligible costs covered.
Environmental Sustainability and Climate Action
This strand supports projects that contribute to a greener, more sustainable rural Donegal. Eligible projects include those focused on green economy development, climate change capacity building, sustainable rural environment protection, and climate adaptation measures. Grants of up to €200,000 are available, with funding rates of 75% for community groups and 50% for private promoters.
Documentation
Team
Sinead McLaughlin
Rural Development Manager
Aisling McGee
Project Officer (North Donegal)
Simon Canning
Project Officer (South Donegal)