First Steps

How will my application be processed?

Frequently Asked Questions

Programme Measures

3.1 Diversification into Non - Agricultural Activities

3.2 Business Creation and Development

3.3 Encouragement of Tourism Activities

3.4 Basic Services for the Economy and Rural Population

3.5 Village Renewal and Development

3.6 Conservation and Upgrading of Rural Heritage

Basic Services for the Economy and Rural Population

Measure 3.4 Basic Services for the Economy & Rural Population

NOTE: This measure is not currently open for applications

What will this Measure do?

This Measure offers new and existing businesses/organisations/groups an opportunity to develop, promote or expand basic rural services. This programme offers service providers and communities an opportunity to develop innovative, tailor made solutions that meet service provision needs at a local level.

Why?

To improve the access to and provision of rural services.

Who can benefit?

Applications are invited from the private sector, social economy sector, public bodies and community-based (not for profit) organisations

Please note: This is a competitive programme.

What type of projects can be supported?

Outreach work providing access to a wide range of services (health & well being; education; benefits; jobs; financial and debt counselling)
‘Door-step’ delivery of a range of services
Sharing of equipment and premises in order to deliver value for money services

Please note: See further details of eligibility belowWhat type of grant and how much?

Activity	Level of support	Maximum Grant
1. Grant-aid towards services that meet the identified needs of the rural community. Potential projects should evidence how their projects will strategically address the needs identified within the Partnership area and also take into consideration the needs of children & young people and/or older people	For all of these grants the level of support is up to 50% for the private sector and 75% for social economy enterprises including Community Groups. Non Dept Public Bodies and local Councils.	Up to £50,000.Potential applicants should also be aware of the release of a larger grant of £100,000 in the Autumn (details on back page)
2. Grant –aid towards local community based service provision		Up to £10,000

Social economy enterprises and non departmental public bodies may provide match funding in the form of contribution in kind (20%) and cash contribution of at least 5%
Applicants can also apply for technical support, bespoke training & marketing support under this Measure.

Eligible Applicants Applicants must be located in a rural area. They may be;

private individuals, aged over 18 years
social economy enterprises
non departmental public bodies
local councils

*         Definition: Social Economy Enterprise (SEE) are viewed as those organisations that have a social, community or ethical purpose, operate using a commercial business model and have a legal form appropriate to a not-for personal profit status.

Non Eligible Activities

Any activity that could be funded by another statutory body/council.Employment grants for private business or non strategic posts.

Renewable Energy Sources

Renewable Energy Sources may be funded only where it is part of a capital spend project for a new or expanding business. The project must also create employment.   Basic Services Guidelines Flowchart Published by DARD