Funding community-led projects to strengthen rural Clare
LEADER in Clare: Sustainable Growth via CLDC
LEADER is a rural development programme that supports community groups, businesses, social enterprises and local initiatives across County Clare.
CLDC delivers LEADER locally and can help you explore whether your project is eligible for support. CLDC’s LEADER plan for Clare was developed following extensive public and stakeholder consultation in 2023. We welcome businesses, community groups, and individuals to apply for funding and take part in building a stronger, more sustainable future.
Clare Local Development Company
What and who are
we funding?
CLDC
What can we fund?
Green and Blue Economy
Support for projects in sustainability, environmental innovation and water-based enterprise across rural Clare.
Jobs and Economic Growth
Grants and supports for local enterprises, community businesses, workspaces and equipment that help create jobs.
Social Inclusion and Wellbeing
Funding for projects that reduce exclusion, strengthen support networks and create welcoming spaces for connection.
Sustainability and Environmental Protection
Funding for environmental action, Tidy Towns work, sustainability training and greener local initiatives.
Sustainable Tourism
Funding for tourism and recreation projects such as trails, visitor facilities and digital tools that strengthen local places.
Strong and Connected Communities
Support for training, workshops, community hubs and shared spaces that make rural communities stronger and more resilient.
Youth Engagement
Support for youth wellbeing, participation and placemaking projects that give young people a stronger role in community life.
Climate Resilience and Inclusion
Support for climate adaptation, nature-based solutions and practical steps toward a fairer low-carbon future.
Who can apply?
- Community groups
- Rural businesses
- Social enterprises
- Tourism initiatives
- Environmental projects
- Local development initiatives
How to apply
- Contact the CLDC LEADER team to discuss your idea.
- Submit an Expression of Interest form.
- We will advise you on eligibility and the next steps.
- If suitable, you will be supported through the application process.
CLDC
Staff Contacts
Siobhan Normoyle
LEADER Coordinator
Contact me for general inquiries about the LEADER programme.
snormoyle@cldc.ie
087 4020258
Aisling De Klerk
LEADER Development Officer
Contact me to enquire about LEADER supports
Adeklerk@cldc.ie
087 971 8866
Deirdre Morrissey
LEADER Development Officer
Contact me to enquire about LEADER supports
DMorrissey@cldc.ie
087 383 2973
Some of our Success Stories
LEADER | Clare Local Development Company | Clonlara Community “Third Space” for wellness, café, culture and remote working. Transforming an underused community centre into a vibrant wellness hub for all […]
LEADER | Clare Local Development Company | Kilfenora Common Knowledge teaches practical skills for sustainable, low‑carbon living. The Traditional Skills Training Programme is a LEADER‑funded initiative that reconnects people in […]
LEADER | Clare Local Development Company | Miltown Malbay A buzzing co‑working, craft and food creator space Design Bank in Miltown Malbay, Co. Clare, is an innovative rural regeneration project […]
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