We provide support and grant assistence for existing small businesses and new business start ups. The New Rural Development Programme (RDP) 2007 – 2013 was launched in Ireland in February 2009. The overall objective of the programme is to improve the quality of life in rural areas and to encourage diversification of the rural economy. The programme is funded 55% by the EU and 45% by the Irish gove
rnment exchequer. This is the fourth programme of its type, better know as LEADER, the first of which started in 1991. Following an extensive consultation and planning process, CWP submitted a business in June 2008 which set out the priorities for rural development in Co. Wicklow. The plan focuses on support in 3 main areas:
Community Development, incl. facilities
Rural Tourism and Outdoor Recreation
Enterprise and Economic Development
CWP was successful in leveraging a commitment of €8 million to invest in project funding for the county between now and 2013. Individuals, businesses and community groups are all eligible to apply for funding under the following measures:
On – farm diversification into non agricultural activities
Support for business creation and development
Encouragement of tourism activities
Basic services for the economy and rural population
Village renewal and development
Conservation and upgrading of rural heritage
Training and information
