The 2026 Local Enhancement Programme will open for applications on Wednesday 14th January 2026.
The Closing Date for receipt of completed applications is 12:00 noon on Monday 23rd February 2026.
The Local Enhancement Programme (LEP) provides capital supports essential for many small community groups and organisations, particularly those who serve disadvantaged areas.
In December 2025, Galway County Council received funding of €213,600. This fund comprises of:
- Capital Funding to support groups to carry out necessary repairs and improvements to their facilities, and to purchase equipment for community use. Please note the maximum grant available is €8,000.
Galway County Local Community Development Committee (LCDC) administer the fund. Funds are not to be released to Grantees until approved by the LCDC and the Grantee is fully compliant with the Terms and Conditions of the Programme.
The scheme is designed to ensure local priorities are identified and met, in order to improve and enhance community facilities for all.
Applications should relate to one or more key priority areas identified in the LCDC’s Local Economic and Community Plan (LECP) in order to be eligible for consideration.
Applicants should apply via our online grants system, on the link below:
You can view the Guidelines for the 2026 LEP below:
The Local Enhancement Programme 2026 is funded by the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht. Please see the following link to the press release announcing the Local Enhancement Programme 2026 at national level, by the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary TD, and the Minister of State with responsibility for Community Development and Charities, Jerry Buttimer TD: Press release.