New round of Leader funding available

COMMUNITIES across Argyll and the Islands are being encouraged to apply for a share of almost £ 5 million of EU funding to support economic growth and development.

The next round of European Leader funding is now available and applications are being sought for community-led initiatives which develop a strong local economy.

LEADER funding programme grants are awarded by the Local Action Group (LAG) to projects which fit with its development strategy, and the Argyll and the Islands LAG has identified strengthening the local economy and enhancing the area for residents, visitors and investors as key drivers.

It will also be looking for projects that support farm diversification and small businesses.

Between 2007 and 2013 more than £7.1 million in funding was distributed by the LAG to 256 local projects, including those in the food and drink, culture and heritage, sustainable or tourism, agriculture or forestry sectors.

The Leader programme is administered by Argyll and Bute Council and Councillor Aileen Morton, the council’s policy lead for sustainable economic growth, said: ‘The Leader programme has already contributed significantly to helping our communities address some of the challenges facing them.

‘Community-led initiatives that support and develop our local economy or create employment and those that build on our unique natural and cultural heritage in Argyll and the islands will be especially welcomed.’

More than £4.8 million is available and potential applicants are being encouraged to submit an application as soon as possible as future Leader funding cannot be guaranteed until there is more information on what impact the decision to leave the EU will have.

The deadline for applications is Friday October 14. Further details of the application process can be found at www.aileader.org.

Previously approved projects are also featured on the group’s website, which can be found at www.argyllandtheislandsleader.org.uk/ approved-projects.