Welcome to the Ayrshire LEADER website. Here you will find lots of information on the LEADER Programme, who and how you can apply for funding and examples of projects that have been approved by the Local Action Group (LAG) so far.
Should there be any information your require and cannot find on the website, please contact the LEADER office on 01292 673 768 where staff will be happy to help.
Directions to Ayrshire LEADER Office.pdf
The aim of the mainland Ayrshire LEADER Programme is to build knowledge and skills within our rural communities, and encourage innovation and co-operation by supporting new and innovative projects which tackle local rural development issues.
**The Ayrshire LEADER LAG has nearly committed all funding and therefore only small-scale/value projects could be considered during this final stage of the programme period**
The LAG will continue to accept initial enquiry forms from any groups or organisations seeking funding for projects that address economic, social or environmental issues linked to the Ayrshire LEADER strategy. Projects must be new, have match-funding in place at time of application and able to start and complete by no later than 31st December 2013.
LEADER is part of the Scottish Rural Development Programme (SRDP 2007-2013), a part-European funded programme aimed at promoting economic and community development within rural areas. LEADER aims to help those active in rural Scotland to consider the long term potential of their area and unlock this potential through building confidence.
The Local Action Groups (LAG) aims to ensure this fund inspires, motivates and stimulates the communities of Ayrshire to work together in achieving a lasting legacy and contribute to the rejuvenation of rural communities, helping them meet challenges and grasp the opportunities.
The Ayrshire LEADER programme will run until December 2013, investing £4.55m of grant funding over that period, with match funding brought forward on a project by project basis.
LEADER is delivered through a local partnership known as the Ayrshire Local Action Group (LAG), made up of representatives from a wide variety of public and private organisations involved in rural development activities - look under Current LAG Members.
Please note that the following procurement requirements must be adhered to, without exception, when seeking the supply of goods or materials, for the provision of services or for the execution of works procuring any goods and services using LEADER funds: All works with an estimated value of between £0 and £29,999 are subject to a minimum of 3 written quotations.
