CALL FOR NEW AND INNOVATIVE PROJECT IDEAS

The LEADER programme, which aims to support the regeneration of rural Carmarthenshire, has opened its second call for Expressions of Interest.

LEADER is designed to get local people, businesses and communities involved in delivering sustainable, innovative solutions to address some of the economic, social and environmental challenges facing rural Carmarthenshire. The Local Action Group – Grŵp Cefn Gwlad is managing the LEADER programme in Carmarthenshire.

LEADER is part of the Welsh Government Rural Communities – Rural Development Programme 2014 – 2020, which is financed by the Welsh Government and European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD).

The types of projects that may be funded include:

• Pilot projects – small scale and time limited activities aimed at testing out a concept or to try an innovative technique. E.g. piloting new ways of delivering rural services using modern technology
• Feasibility studies to undertake research into a specific issue or problem
• Facilitation and mentoring support to organisations and groups to help develop their skills and expertise.

The programme can provide financial support of up to 80% towards a project’s costs.

In this second call Grŵp Cefn Gwlad is seeking innovative projects that facilitate, investigate, identify, test and pilot new ways of addressing the Local Development Strategy objectives and LEADER priorities within the following themes;

• Theme 1 – Adding Value to Local Identity and Natural and Cultural Resources.
• Theme 2 – Facilitating Pre-Commercial Development, Business Partnerships and Short Supply Chains

• Theme 3 – Exploring New Ways of Providing Non – Statutory Local Services
• Theme 4 – Renewable Energy at a Community Level

Further information on the priorities within these themes that Grŵp Cefn Gwlad is looking to address, can be accessed via the following link http://wwec.org.uk/english/LatestNews/Pages/lc.aspx

The deadline for submission of the Expression of Interest is April 1st 2016

The LAG can also support projects that cooperate with other geographical areas. If you have an innovative idea to address any of the above themes via inter-territorial or transnational working, please contact the RDP team.

Further information, guidance and application forms are available on the following website www.wwec.org.uk, alternatively please contact the RDP Team on 01267 242431/394; email RDPsirgar@sirgar.gov.uk