News

11 Jul 2018

LEADER programme provides £56 million in grant funding

Since its introduction in January 2016, the LEADER programme has provided grants in England worth over £56 million.

Analysed by, Ted Howard-Jones of Countryside Marketing, these findings highlight the significant role government and EU support has played in supporting agricultural and rural businesses over the past couple of years.

“This £56 million is part of the £138 million available in England between 2015 and 2020 under the LEADER programme,” says Ted.

“Although funded by the EU, applicants apply for LEADER grant funding through their Local Action Groups (LAG). The projects which are supported are those that fit with the local priorities and also meet at least one of the six LEADER programme priorities.”

Ted reveals that the average size of the grants awarded to date has been £32,000 with the largest grants just over £200,000 and the smallest £2,000.

“The geographic spread of the projects across England is reasonably uniform. However, there seems to be a greater density in the South West and South Coast, and areas where you would perhaps expect to see more projects, such as Worcestershire, have been less popular.

“Nevertheless, the availability of this funding has been instrumental in aiding the start and growth of many rural businesses. Me included in this.”

Source: Countryside Marketing

LEADER funding is still available in many areas. To find out more and to check your eligibility, click here.

To find your Local Action Group, click here.

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