Current Targeted Calls

Targeted and Rolling Calls

Under the LEADER Programme, an Expression of Interest (EOI) can be accepted on a ‘targeted call’ (competitive) basis or a ‘rolling call’ (‘first-come, first served’) basis.

Targeted Call

Under a ‘targeted call’, an initial deadline is given for the submission of EOIs and a subsequent deadline will be given to eligible projects for submission of full funding applications.
Following submission of full applications, eligible projects are evaluated together on a competitive basis and ranked in order of highest to lowest with funding distributed according to this ranking.
The purpose of targeted calls is to allow LEADER to target funding at areas where it can deliver the most value, and where a comparative assessment is considered appropriate.

Rolling Call

Under a ‘rolling call’, applicants can submit an EOI at any time.
When the EOI has been assessed and deemed eligible, a promoter will then be invited to submit a full application.
Funding under a rolling call will be allocated to projects on a ‘first come, first served’ basis.

Summary of Current Funding Ceilings and Support Rates
Type of Project	Application	Max Rate of Aid	Max Funding
Community Projects not involving Economic Activity	Community	Up to a max of 75%	€500,000
Community Projects involving Economic Activity	Community (after 1st April 2021)	Up to a max of 75%	€200,000
Investment & other supports (including promotion undertaken as part of the implementation of a project)	Private (after 1st April 2021)	Up to a max of 75%	€200,000
	Community	Up to a max of 75%
	Community under Basic Services Targeted at Hard to Reach Community Sub Theme	Up to a max of 90%
Analysis and Development	Private	Up to a max of 75%	€30,000
Analysis and Development	Community	Up to a max of 90%	€30,000
Training	Private/ or Community	Up to a max of 100%	€200,000

Current Targeted Calls

Targeted Call North Cork – The Green Economy

The budget available for this call is €32,625.00 and the maximum level of funding up to €32,625.00 with a maximum capital grant rate of 75% of total project costs.

Deadline or Receipt of Expression of Interests: July 24th, 2026

Deadline for full complete applications: 25th September 2026

Proposed Final approval: 19th October, 2026

Proposed Start Date of Projects: November 2026

The Green Economy theme under the LEADER Programme supports rural enterprises that contribute to environmental sustainability, climate action, and the transition to a low-carbon economy. The programme aims to encourage businesses to adopt greener practices, develop environmentally sustainable products or services, and improve resource efficiency while supporting rural economic development and job creation.

Funding may support businesses investing in renewable energy technologies, energy-efficient equipment, sustainable production methods, waste reduction systems, and environmentally friendly innovations. It can also assist enterprises involved in eco-tourism, recycling and reuse initiatives, green construction, sustainable packaging, biodiversity-related services, and low-carbon technologies. In some cases, support may also be available for feasibility studies, research and development, and the diversification of existing rural businesses into environmentally sustainable activities.

The Green Economy measure is particularly focused on projects that demonstrate innovation, reduce environmental impact, create local employment opportunities, and contribute positively to the rural economy. Businesses must also show that the project aligns with local LEADER priorities and delivers wider benefits to the community and environment in addition to commercial gain.

This funding is targeted towards Businesses and Social, Community and Cooperative Enterprises. (Communities groups are ineligible for funding under this measure)

Please note that you must have planning permission or planning exemption in place for this funding if there is Capital Works.

Your project must be in the Avondhu Blackwater Partnership area of North Cork to be eligible for funding.

Those successful at EOI stage will be eligible to submit an application as part of the second stage of the targeted call. EOI’s that progress to stage 2 will be informed of the timeframe for assessing and notifying applicants of the results of the process.

If you wish to submit and Expression of Interest please contact Avondhu Blackwater on

If you would like to submit an Expression of Interest, please 022 46580 or info@avondhublackwater.com

Previous Targeted Calls

Optimising Digital Connectivity – Now Closed

The budget available for this call is €47,850.00 and the maximum level of funding up to €47,850.00 with a maximum capital grant rate of 75% of total project costs.

Deadline or Receipt of Expression of Interests: 13th March 2026

Deadline for full complete applications: 29th May 2026

Under the Optimising Digital Connectivity theme in LEADER, funding can support projects that strengthen digital infrastructure, skills, and services in rural communities. This can include initiatives to improve access to broadband-enabled facilities, the creation of digital hubs or co-working spaces, and investment in equipment or software that enhances connectivity for community groups and rural enterprises. Training and capacity-building projects aimed at improving digital literacy, e-commerce skills, and online service delivery are also eligible, ensuring that individuals, businesses, and communities can fully participate in the digital economy. Additionally, funding can be used for innovative digital solutions that address rural challenges, such as smart village initiatives, digital tourism promotion, or the development of online platforms that connect communities, support remote working, or provide access to essential services. All projects must demonstrate how they will reduce digital exclusion, enhance participation, and contribute to the long-term social and economic sustainability of rural areas.

Avondhu Blackwater Partnership

Sustainable Development of Rural Environment – October 2025 – Now Closed

Avondhu Blackwater is seeking Expressions of Interest under the Sustainable Development of Rural Environment Theme.

Avondhu Blackwater aims to support and encourage protection and sustainable use of water resources, protection and improvement of local biodiversity and development of renewable energy.

This call is part of a time limited, competitive, targeted call with an initial deadline for the submission of EOI forms set for 5.00 pm on November, 28th 2025.
Responses will be issued to EOI applicants within 15 working days.
The final deadline for full applications (with all supporting paperwork and compliances) will be 5.00 pm on 30th January 2026.

The budget available for this call is €304,500.00 and the maximum level of funding up to €200,000.00 with a maximum capital grant rate of 75% of total project costs.

Avondhu Blackwater Partnership

Sustainable Development of Rural Environment Dec 2024 – Now Closed

Avondhu Blackwater is seeking Expressions of Interest under the Sustainable Development of Rural Environment Theme.

Avondhu Blackwater aims to support and encourage protection and sustainable use of water resources, protection and improvement of local biodiversity and development of renewable energy.

This call is part of a time limited, competitive, targeted call with an initial deadline for the submission of EOI forms set for 5.00 pm on Friday, 28th February 2025.
Responses will be issued to EOI applicants within 15 working days.
The final deadline for full applications (with all supporting paperwork and compliances) will be 5.00 pm on Wednesday, 30th April 2025.