The Create Green business training programme in Co. Offaly has been shortlisted as a finalist in the Environmental Protection category of the EU CAP Network’s Agricultural and Rural Inspiration Awards (ARIA) 2025.

Selected from over 120 entries across Europe, this Irish initiative — nominated by CAP Network Ireland — is one of just 24 projects to make the final shortlist. ARIA is organised annually by the EU CAP Network, to celebrate inspiring and forward-thinking projects that are shaping the future of rural Europe through support from the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP). This year, the awards highlight the greenest, smartest, most socially inclusive, innovative, and resilient CAP-funded projects making an impact at the local level.

Create Green, funded under the 2023-2027 LEADER programme, supports creative and food/farming businesses in County Offaly, recognising their importance in building a sustainable rural future. These industries are key to rural economic growth and regional brand identity in Ireland, and have a crucial role in addressing climate change, advancing the circular economy, and promoting the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

This programme, developed by Offaly Local Development Company, offers tailored guidance to help participating businesses evolve, align with sustainability values, and communicate their impact. Support includes training on energy efficiency, supply-chain awareness, and the use of SDG-linked themes and tourism indicators to enhance brand identity and eco-tourism.

You can watch a short project video on the EU CAP Network YouTube channel.

While a jury will select the winners in each of the thematic categories, the ‘Popular Vote’ is up to you!

Please show your support for this excellent Irish project by casting your vote before 5pm on Monday, 1 December.

More Details
• For more information on ARIA 2025, visit the EU CAP Network website.
• Further information on the LEADER programme in Ireland can be found on the dedicated section of the CAP Network Ireland website.