In an announcement yesterday, Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary TD, and Minister of State with responsibility for Community Development and Charities, Jerry Buttimer TD, shared details on the successful projects which have received funding under the Local Enhancement Programme (LEP) 2026.
County Wicklow has received €199,043.66 as part of the 2026 Programme, with over 200 community organisations across the county set to receive vital funding because of this announcement.
The Local Enhancement Programme 2026 was launched in December 2025, and it will provide capital funding of €7 million to support projects that are essential for many small community groups and organisations, particularly those who serve disadvantaged areas in rural and urban areas. A total of over 4,100 individual projects will be funded, supporting thousands of community organisations across the country.
The Department of Rural and Community Development and Gaeltacht’s Local Enhancement Programme 2026 is administered by Local Community Development Committees, with support from the Local Authority, in each area.
This funding will provide capital supports that are essential for many small community groups and organisations, particularly those who serve disadvantaged communities in rural and urban areas.
There will be a particular focus on small capital works/improvements, and the purchase of equipment for community use. The funding may be used for, but it is not limited to; improving access for persons with a disability; enhancing community participation for disadvantaged and marginalised groups and improving energy efficiency of community facilities to reduce ongoing costs.
This fund is being provided by the government to support community and voluntary groups, totalling €7 million to be allocated across the local authority network.
Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council Cllr. Dr. Caroline Winstanley welcomed the announcement stating, “The Local Enhancement Programme funding is invaluable for so many groups and clubs that work tirelessly to improve our local communities and provide essential activities around the county.”
Chief Executive of Wicklow County Council, Emer O’Gorman highlighted the importance of the funding and said “This funding represents a significant investment in our communities. It will empower and support local groups and organisations at a grassroots level to continue their work in delivering important community projects and services.”
Minister Buttimer stated, “The Local Enhancement Programme is all about supporting our local groups and clubs across the country, who are vital to Irish community life.”
Minister Dara Calleary said, “The impact of the Local Enhancement Programme is considerable, and it allows community groups to carry out the invaluable work they do on behalf of others in local areas throughout the country.”
The full list of successful Wicklow projects can be viewed here. All applicants will be contacted by Wicklow County Council in due course regarding their project.