7 October 2008
LEADER funding for rural communities – second funding round
Posted by Louise under: News Releases .
The Scottish Borders LEADER Programme is now taking applications for a second round of funding. A total of £302,277 was awarded to five projects in the first round of applications, in August 2008. These include projects to support events and festivals in the Scottish Borders; develop ancestral tourism; establish a network of artists and creative businesses; and fund a facilitator to develop joint environmental projects between farmers and landowners.
LEADER is an EU and Scottish Government Programme, which supports new projects that result in innovation, cooperation, community involvement, and sustainable rural development. The Scottish Borders LEADER Programme has two main themes – “Progressive Rural Economy” and “Revitalising Rural Communities”. All project proposals must show how they contribute to these themes.
Examples of LEADER projects could include support for cooperation between farmers to develop a wildlife tourism project, or help for a group of businesses to develop local food products, or assistance for cultural activities including events and festivals.
Councillor Vicky Davidson, Executive Member for Economic Development, said: “I would urge all rural, community and business groups to sit down and think ‘outside the box’ about what could be done to revitalise their community or add more value to local rural businesses. Even if the idea is not fully worked up the LEADER Coordinator will be only too happy to talk it through and see if a workable project can be developed”.
LEADER can fund up to 50% of a project’s eligible costs. Projects based in Hawick or Galashiels, which have populations of over 10,000, will need to demonstrate strong links to the surrounding rural areas to be eligible for support.
Grants are awarded quarterly and the deadline for the next round of applications is 24 October 2008.
Further information is available from Maria Mackenzie, LEADER Coordinator, c/o Scottish Borders Council, email scotbordersleader@scotborders.gov.uk or tel. 01835 826661.
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