• €7 million fund to assist thousands of community groups across the country
• Local Enhancement Programme to focus on disadvantaged areas
• Supporting community groups a key focus of ‘Our Rural Future’
   

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, have today (Friday, 5 December) announced €7 million in funding under the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht’s Local Enhancement Programme (LEP) 2026.

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.

The scheme is designed to ensure local priorities are identified and met, to improve and enhance community facilities for all. Funding will be available to a diverse range of community groups including, but not limited to, community centres, parish halls and local voluntary groups.

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.

County Wicklow has received €199,043.66 as part of the Local Enhancement Programme 2026.

The LEP funding is about helping our communities, local groups and clubs. This funding will empower our communities to become even more vital hubs for activities and services. 

Eligible funding costs

The following provides a non-exhaustive list of projects that are eligible for funding under the Programme:

• Maintenance/refurbishment of community centres
• Accessibility improvements
• Community amenities e.g. parks, playgrounds
• Development of youth clubs or facilities
• Development of sports/recreation facilities
• Improvements to town parks and common areas and spaces
• CCTV equipment
• Public realm improvements
• Street-scaping
• Development of play/recreation spaces
• Improving energy efficiency of community facilities to reduce ongoing costs
• Purchase of equipment/ ICT equipment e.g. laptops, tablets, printers
• Maintenance of premises, including painting and repairs
• Capital works to increase biodiversity, or to reduce the carbon footprint of a facility
• Cleaning equipment

Ineligible funding costs

The following expenditure is not eligible for funding:

• Any project not in keeping with the ethos of the Programme
• Costs incurred prior the Department announcing the list of successful projects
• Any costs that are current in nature e.g. programming, training
• Employment costs
• Legal/Project Management fees/Feasibility Studies
• Purchase of lands or buildings
• Private or commercial operations
• Costs which are being paid for by another funder or department

The Wicklow Local Community Development Committee (LCDC) is responsible for allocating funding through this scheme. Applications must relate to one or more key priority areas identified in their LCDC's Local Economic and Community Plan (LECP) to be eligible for consideration.

Application forms will be available on Wicklow County Council’s website on the 19th January 2026, with the closing date for applications set for 13th February 2026.