LEADER Funding for Rural Communities - Second Funding Round continued

LEADER 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 support for a group of businesses to develop local food products, or support for cultural activities including events and festivals.

LEADER can fund up to 50% of a project’s eligible costs.  Projects based in Hawick and 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 mmackenzie@scotborders.gov.uk tel. 01835 826661.

Beneficiaries of LEADER+ Programme funding celebrating the launch of the new LEADER Programme. 

Back row from left to right: Callum Lagrange with daughter Maya from ‘The Hub’ Community Centre at Lamancha, Kenny Galt, Biologist with Tweed Foundation, Pete Ritchie from ‘The Hub’ at Lamancha, Councillor Vicky Davidson, Executive Member for Economic Development.  

Front row from left to right: Vicky Mohieddeen, filmmaker with A Voice of My Own project, Maria Mackenzie, LEADER Coordinator and Arthur McKenzie, from the Glentress Osprey Viewing Centre.  Photograph taken at Glentress with the kind permission of the Forestry Commission Scotland