Department of Rural and Community Development Local Enhancement Programme 2024 Ring-fenced fund for Women’s Groups
The Department of Rural and Community Development (“the Department”) has allocated funding of €1 million to support Women’s Groups across Ireland. This is a ring-fenced fund under the Local Enhancement Programme 2024. The application process is being administered by Local Community Development Committees (LCDCs).
Applications for this funding can be made on this application form. Women’s Groups are eligible to apply, once they meet the LCDC’s qualifying criteria.
It envisaged that this funding would, in general, be allocated in a relatively equal manner across Women’s Groups that submit valid applications.
Terms and Conditions
The Local Enhancement Programme will support groups, particularly in disadvantaged areas, to carry out necessary repairs and improvements to their facilities and purchase equipment.
This is a capital funding scheme. The scheme does not provide funding for the pay or employment of staff or towards current 'operating' costs such as utility bills, etc.
The activity or project must benefit the local community and relate to the key priority areas identified in the LECP.
The information supplied by the applicant group/organisation must be accurate and complete.
Inaccurate or incomplete information may lead to disqualification and/or the repayment of any grant made.
All information provided in respect of the application for a grant will be held electronically. The Department reserves the right to publish a list of all grants awarded on its website.
The Freedom of Information Act applies to all records held by the Department and Local Authorities, including applications received and any additional correspondence related to the application.
The application must be signed by the Chairperson, Secretary or Treasurer of the organisation making the submission.
It is the responsibility of each organisation to ensure that it has proper procedures and policies in place, including appropriate insurance, where relevant.
Evidence of expenditure, receipts/invoices must be retained and provided to the LCDC, the Department of Rural and Community Development, the relevant local authority or any agent acting on their behalf if requested.
Grant monies must be expended and drawn down from the LCDC by 31st December 2024. Photographic evidence may be required to facilitate draw down of grants.
The Department or Rural and Community Development's contribution must be publicly acknowledged in all materials associated with the purpose of the grant, including signage.
Generally, no third party or intermediary applications will be considered.
Late applications will not be considered.
Applications by post should use the correct value of postage stamps and allow sufficient time to ensure delivery not later than the closing date of Wednesday 21st February 2024. Claims that any application form has been lost or delayed in the post will not be considered unless applications have a Post Office Certificate of Posting in support of such claims.
Breaches of the terms and conditions of the grants scheme may result in sanctions including disbarment from future grant applications.
Please ensure the application form is completed in full. Incomplete applications will not be considered for funding.
In order to process your application, it may be necessary for Laois County Council to collect personal data from you. Such information will be processed in line with the Local Authority's privacy Statement which is available to view on www.laois.ie.
Eligibility
Any not-for-profit community or voluntary group can apply.
Commercial organisations and individuals are not eligible for funding.