LEADER Funding for Local Enterprises

Wexford businesses can access grant funding of up to €150,000 through the LEADER programme to support growth, innovation, and job creation.

What type of enterprise can get LEADER grant aid?

LEADER supports new and expanding enterprises in three sectors:

1) Rural tourism and recreation…

We support tourism businesses that create memorable visitor experiences and help more people discover Wexford. This includes attractions, activities, and alternative types of accommodation that strengthen local employment and extend visitor stays.

2) Niche and sustainable food & beverage…

LEADER funds niche and innovative Wexford food and beverage producers that bring something unique to Ireland’s food scene.

3) Green economy…

The bioeconomy promotes the sustainable use of products, services, and by-products from sectors such as agri-food, forestry, construction, fisheries, and aquaculture. The circular economy maintains the value of products, materials and resources in the economy, minimising waste. Together, they are key to achieving climate neutrality — and LEADER supports enterprises that are helping make the circular / bioeconomy central to Wexford’s economy.

Applicants must have fewer than 250 employees and operate in County Wexford.

Case studies

Testimonials from some of our wonderful LEADER promoters…

What can be funded?

LEADER provides grant aid for a range of business development costs, including:

Construction works (extensions, refurbishments, fit-outs)
Equipment purchase
Marketing initiatives / website development

Grant rates

There are different rates of grant aid and maximum funding amounts depending on the project type…

Type of project	Rate of aid (% of project costs LEADER can fund)	Maximum grant available
The Green Economy	up to 60%	€150.000
Tourism (activity, etc.)	up to 60%	€150,000
Tourism (alternative accommodation)	up to 60%	€100,000
Food & beverage	up to 60%	€150,000
Feasibility studies	up to 75%	€30,000

The minimum grant amount for all projects is €5,000.

What can applicants expect?

Businesses that contact us about their project can expect ongoing support and guidance from our team.

A LEADER Project Officer will review your query and discuss your project’s eligibility with you.
If eligible, you’ll prepare a business plan and an application form – you will be guided through the process.
For early-stage ideas or expansion plans, a feasibility study may be the best starting point.
Completed applications are presented to an independent Evaluation Committee for review and assessment.

Applications are open

To discuss your project idea or find out how to apply, contact our LEADER team at leader@wld.ie.

About LEADER and our Local Development Strategy (LDS)

The 2023–2027 programme is co-funded by the Irish Government and the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD), with €5.4 million allocated to County Wexford.

LEADER is a rural development programme that has supported communities across the EU since 1991. In County Wexford, over €35 million in LEADER grants have supported more than 1,340 local enterprises and community groups.

Funding decisions are determined locally by the Local Action Group in line with LEADER operating rules and our Local Development Strategy (LDS), which was developed in consultation with communities, businesses, and stakeholders across Wexford.