Promotional graphic for Offaly Local Development Company announcing the LEADER Targeted Call 2026. The top of the image features the Offaly Local Development Company logo and the LEADER programme logo. The centre displays the headline "TARGETED CALL 2026" above a photograph of a podcast-style microphone on a desk beside an open laptop and headphones. The website www.oldc.ie appears at the bottom, alongside the logos of the Government of Ireland, Project Ireland 2040, Our Rural Future, and the European Union.

Theme

Theme 2: Rural Infrastructure & Social Inclusion

Funding Budget

A budget of €83,000 is available for this targeted call.

Maximum Grant

Up to €15,000.00 per project, covering a maximum rate of 75% for community capital costs.

EOI Deadline

4pm, 7th September 2026, for the submission of Expression of Interest forms.

Promotional graphic for Offaly Local Development Company announcing the LEADER Targeted Call 2026. The top of the image features the Offaly Local Development Company logo and the LEADER programme logo. The centre displays the headline "TARGETED CALL 2026" above a photograph of a podcast-style microphone on a desk beside an open laptop and headphones. The website www.oldc.ie appears at the bottom, alongside the logos of the Government of Ireland, Project Ireland 2040, Our Rural Future, and the European Union.

Call Overview and Invitation

Offaly Local Development Company invites Expression of Interest from Community/Voluntary groups, Social Enterprises and Networks who would like improve their IT and audio-visual equipment.

The call falls under Theme 2: Rural Infrastructure & Social Inclusion

Good digital connectivity and access to modern technology are increasingly important for communities, particularly in rural areas. Community facilities play a vital role in supporting local activities and services, and many voluntary groups, social enterprises, and community networks rely on digital equipment to deliver their work. IT and audio-visual equipment can help organisations run training and events, hold online and hybrid meetings, support remote working, and improve communication and access to services. This funding will help rural communities upgrade their facilities, reduce digital barriers, and ensure community buildings remain welcoming, accessible, and fit for purpose for everyone who uses them.

Detailed Call Criteria

Programme Theme and Rationale

The call operates under Theme 2: Rural Infrastructure & Social Inclusion. The sub-theme is Sub-theme 2c. Optimising Digital Connectivity

The rationale is that good digital connectivity and access to modern technology are increasingly important for communities, particularly in rural areas. Community facilities play a vital role in supporting local activities and services, and many voluntary groups, social enterprises, and community networks rely on digital equipment to deliver their work.

Budget and Grant Aid Structure

The total Budget for this Targeted Call is €83,000.

The Maximum Level of Funding available per project is Up to €15,000.00.

The Minimum Level of Funding is €1,250.00.

The Maximum Rates of grant aid provided is 75% for community projects (capital).

Eligible Projects and Target Groups

This initiative will provide support for capital costs associated with the purchase, installation, and commissioning of IT and audio-visual equipment.

Eligible expenditure includes, but is not limited to, the acquisition of computers, printers, stage lighting, public address (PA) systems, projectors, projection screens, and other audio-visual and information technology equipment that enhances the capacity and functionality of the applicant’s facilities.

The Target Groups are Community/Voluntary groups, Social Enterprises, Networks.

The Geographic Area is All of Co. Offaly; however, priority will be given to ensure Communities who have not accessed LEADER funding across the County.

Application Timeline and Contact Information

The call is open for Expression of Interest forms on 4th August 2026.

The Closing date for receipt of Stage 1: Expression of Interest (EOI) is 4pm, 7th September 2026.

Projects will be selected based on submission of fully completed applications and supporting documentation. All successful EOIs will be invited to submit a full application for consideration for LEADER funding.

To request more information and the Expression of Interest Form, please email: info@offalyldc.ie.

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