LEADER is an EU-funded initiative aimed at supporting rural development projects across Europe. The name “LEADER” stands for “Liaison Entre Actions de Développement de l’Économie Rurale” in French, which translates to “Links Between Actions for the Development of the Rural Economy.”
LEADER operates through a bottom-up approach, focusing on supporting innovative projects that contribute to the sustainable development of rural communities, including initiatives related to agriculture, tourism, environment, social inclusion, and cultural heritage. LEADER funding can be used for a wide range of activities, such as infrastructure improvements, capacity building, business development, and community services.
Do you have a project in South Cork? Contact us and who knows, LEADER can help!
South Cork LEADER Footprint
Your Local Development Company
In South Cork there are two Local Development Companies, known as an Implementing Partners, who work in partnership with Cork County Council namely; Avondhu Blackwater Partnership CLG and SECAD Partnership CLG.
Contact the relevant Implementing Partner below for an Expression of Interest and they will guide you through the LEADER process.
Avondhu Blackwater Partnership CLG
The Mill, Castletownroche, Co. Cork.
P51 F9PX
022 46580
info@avondhublackwater.com
SECAD Partnership CLG
Community Enterprise Centre,
Owenacurra Business Park,
Knockgriffin,
Midleton,
Co. Cork
P25 Y893
021 461 3432
info@secad.ie
www.secad.ie
LEADER Themes
Economic Development & Job Creation
Theme One focuses on the need to support the development of the rural economy which has been identified as a focus for rural development. This is demonstrated by driving continued local economic development, including diversification of the rural economy and the creation of employment opportunities for the local community, and disadvantaged groups.
RURAL INFRASTRUCTURE & SOCIAL INCLUSION
Rural Ireland is becoming increasingly diverse and it is important to embrace this diversity ensuring that future community development recognises the needs of all members of society through improving access for all, developing infrastructure, digital connectivity and providing services for young people in rural areas.
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT & CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION & ADAPTATION
This theme seeks to maximise the potential of environmental actions to contribute to the sustainable development of rural communities. It focuses on utilising the landscape within a local area, its features and natural resources, while simultaneously creating a greater environmental awareness and improving environmental protection.
News
Hello world!
Testimonials
The LEADER Programme has been a transformative experience for our community and organisation. Through its support, we were able to develop and construct a bespoke community center.
We are deeply grateful for this opportunity and would highly recommend the LEADER Programme to other organizations and communities looking to drive positive change. It truly exemplifies the impact that targeted, locally-led initiatives can achieve.
– Courtbrack Community Assocation
Participating in the LEADER Programme has been a game-changer for our projects over the past ten years. Having completed three connected projects, the final being the Pond Walk which has culminated in what is now a looped trail of approximately 6 kilometers.
Thanks to LEADER, we have created something that will benefit not just our generation but future ones as well. We wholeheartedly recommend this programme to any rural community or organisation seeking to make a lasting impact.
– Waterloo Reneal Group






