Policy information

Local Enhancement Programme

From: Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht
Published on: 10 July 2024
Last updated on: 20 May 2026

The Local Enhancement Programme (LEP) provides capital supports essential for many small community groups and organisations, particularly those who serve disadvantaged areas.

The Programme was first launched in 2018 as the Community Enhancement Programme and funding was ring-fenced for Men’s Sheds in 2018, and for both Men’s and Women’s Sheds in 2019.

In 2020 the programme provided funding under the COVID-19 Emergency Fund to support community groups to adapt their services and operations and to become more involved in the Government’s ‘Keep Well’ campaign. It also provided capital funding to support the maintenance, improvement and upkeep of community centres and community buildings.

In 2021 the Community Enhancement Programme provided funding under the Community Activities Fund to support community groups impacted by COVID-19.

The programme changed its name to the Community Support Fund in 2022 and it has been named the Local Enhancement Programme since 2024.

Community groups are encouraged to engage with their Local Community Development Committees (LCDCs), Local Development Companies and Public Participation Networks (PPN), to ensure they are aware of all existing funding opportunities.

Funding Allocations 2018-2026

This document contains a full breakdown of Local Enhancement Programme funding that was allocated to each Local Authority in each year since 2018.

Programme Funding Allocations

A full list of the projects funded in each year of the Local Enhancement Programme can be viewed below.

2025

Local Enhancement Programme

2024

Local Enhancement Programme

2022

Community Support Fund

2021

Community Enhancement Programme