South West Mayo Development Company Celebrates over €1.5 Million in LEADER Funding for 25 Local Projects
Implementing the LEADER programme on behalf of Mayo Local Action Group, this Local Development Company is demonstrating solid delivery in south and west Mayo.
South West Mayo Development Company (SWMDC) is delighted to confirm that almost €1.7 million in LEADER funding has been allocated to 25 projects across south and west Mayo, marking a major milestone in community‑led rural development for the region.
Overseen by Minister Dara Calleary through the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, the funded initiatives span a diverse range of sectors, including community facilities, tourism, biodiversity, private and social enterprise.
Among the community-led projects receiving support are Shrule Community Playground, Velorail Kiltimagh, Digispace Claremorris, and the Joyce Country and Western Lakes GeoEnterprise, each demonstrating the transformative impact of LEADER on local communities.
Volunteers remain at the heart of the LEADER programme, and SWMDC emphasises that this milestone would not be possible without the dedication of local people who give their time, energy, and expertise to drive projects forward.
Speaking about the announcement, Thomas Fitzpatrick, Chairperson of SWMDC, said: “We are very proud to reach this milestone. These projects reflect the ambition and creativity of communities across South West Mayo. LEADER funding empowers local people to shape their own future, and this achievement is a testament to the hard work of volunteers, community groups, and entrepreneurs who are committed to strengthening our rural areas.”
The company is pleased that the range of projects supported span their geographic area and includes a strong representation from the local business sector. Nanny Goose’s Glamping, Mara Education and Leisure, and Ecotek Recycling Ltd are just some of the private enterprises benefitting from this latest funding allocation.
Minister Calleary said:
“I’m delighted to see this level of investment in South and West Mayo through LEADER. Now in its 35th year, LEADER funding has provided rural communities with the necessary resources to bring about real change in their own local communities, through a community-led local development “bottom-up” approach.
“The Programme has enabled our rural communities to address the specific needs and challenges in their local areas and to become more resilient, while supporting job creation, and improving social and economic wellbeing and I want to thank South West Mayo Development Company, and indeed Mayo North East Leader, for their work delivering for their stakeholders.”
David O’Malley, Rural Development Coordinator, also welcomed the news: “These projects will result in a total investment in the area of almost €2.3 million and will make a real and lasting difference on the ground. Our LEADER team works closely with Mayo County Council and Mayo Local Action Group to guide applicants from the earliest stages of a project idea right through to evaluation, contract and grant payment stages. We look forward to supporting all beneficiaries in delivering their projects and ensuring the full value of each grant is successfully drawn down.”
With projects now progressing, the SWMDC LEADER team will work alongside their project promoters in the months ahead to bring these initiatives to fruition and maximise the social and economic benefits for the area.
For communities, businesses, or individuals interested in exploring how LEADER funding could support their ideas, further information is available HERE, where guidance on eligibility, application process, and funding opportunities can be found.
