What’s it all about?

Michael Ring TD, Minister for Rural and Community Development, today announced the launch of the 2019 Community Enhancement Programme (CEP)

The Community Enhancement Programme is funded by the Department of Rural and Community Development to provide funding towards enhancing the facilities available to communities. The Programme has a focus on supporting those living in disadvantaged areas.

Minister Ring said: “The CEP provides vital support to community groups in order to help them improve their facilities. It supports small-scale funding for projects which range from purchasing lawnmowers and IT equipment to minor renovations to buildings. Ultimately the Programme responds to local needs and also provides funding towards larger projects.

“These investments allow community groups to carry out the invaluable work they do on behalf of others in local areas throughout the country. The impact of the Community Enhancement Programme is considerable”.

The CEP was launched for the first time in 2018 and funded over 3,000 projects across the country. It was the result of the first significant exercise in the streamlining of schemes and programmes carried out by the Department of Rural and Community Development. It combined two existing schemes so that funding is now provided to improve facilities in a manner that is more flexible and responsive at a local level.

Who can apply? Any not-for-profit community or voluntary group can apply.  Commercial organisations and individuals are not eligible for funding.

Closing Date Thursday 30th May 2019 at 5.00 pm.

You can download an application form C E P 2019 APPLICATION and Guidelines 2019

IMPORTANT:  Please save Application Form before entering any details.

Application form and guidelines are  also available from the from the Community Development Section, Laois County Council, by email at dce@laosicoco.ie or phone 057 8664206/8664169