Date: 28 Jan 2026
Funding applications invited under Local Enhancement Programme 2026
Donegal County Council and the Donegal Local Community Development Committee (LCDC) are inviting applications from Community groups in disadvantaged areas for capital funding under the Local Enhancement Programme 2026.
The Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht launched the Local Enhancement Programme, with a national allocation of €7 million, with an application option for both small and large capital grants as follows:
- Small Grant: (€500-€1,000) to carry out minor repairs and improvements to community facilities or to support the purchase of equipment.
- Large Grant: (€5,000-€10,000) to carry out necessary repairs and improvements to community facilities or to support the purchase of equipment.
Launching the Scheme in late 2025, Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary T.D said: “Supporting local communities to shape their future is a key focus of the government’s current rural development policy. The Local Enhancement Programme funding I am announcing today will ensure that a wide range of important small scale, ground up projects can be delivered to the areas that need them most, by committed people serving their local communities”.
Cllr. Martin McDermott, Chairperson of Donegal LCDC, welcomed the Fund and encouraged all Community and Voluntary Groups in the County to apply stating:
“Donegal LCDC acknowledge the invaluable work of the Community and Voluntary Groups from every sector and their vital contribution to their Communities. We welcome the Scheme which will support groups to deliver small projects, purchase equipment and assist them in their efforts to support and enhance their communities.”
Closing date:
The closing date for receipt of applications to the Scheme is 3.30pm on Thursday, 26th February 2026.
Further details and link to application process are available on the Donegal County Council website at:
