Local Enhancement Programme 2024 Now Accepting Applications
Applications are open for the Local Enhancement Programme (LEP) 2024, which will provide small scale capital funding to support community groups across Ireland.
- New €6 million capital fund to assist thousands of community groups across the country
- €1 million ring-fenced funding to support Women’s Groups
- Local Enhancement Programme to focus on disadvantaged areas
- Supporting community groups a key focus of ‘Our Rural Future’.
The Department of Rural and Community Development’s Local Enhancement Programme (LEP) 2024 will provide small scale capital funding to support community groups across Ireland, with a separate ring-fenced fund available to Women’s Groups under the Programme.
This capital fund will support groups, particularly in disadvantaged areas, to carry out necessary repairs and improvements to their facilities, purchase equipment such as tables and chairs, tools and signage, laptops and printers, lawnmowers, canopies and training equipment etc.
The funding has been allocated by providing a baseline amount to each area and allocating the remainder based on the population and disadvantage level in each local authority area. The Department has also recommended that 30% of funds allocated should be ring-fenced for projects of €1,000 or less.
The funding is administered on behalf of the Department of Rural and Community Development locally by Local Community Development Committees (LCDCs) across the country, with support from their Local Authority. Applications for funding can be made to the relevant LCDC. Contact details for LCDCs are available.
Closing Date for submission of Applications varies between each LCDC, specific details can be found on individual County Council's websites but closing dates are soon and the scheme is expected to be oversubscribed so be sure to submit your application soon.