APPLYING FOR GRANT AID
Initially you may want some feedback about whether or not your project is suitable for LEADER+ funding. To facilitate this you can complete a short Expression of Interest form. This does NOT constitute an application for funding. If your proposal is deemed eligible in principle, you will be advised to go through the full application process. In the event of your proposal being deemed ineligible you will be notified and where possible, provided with information on potential alternative sources of funding.
The full application form consists of PART A (obtained from www.eugrants.org) which must be submitted on-line. PART B, which is only available after filling in PART A ,must be accessed from the eugrants.org website or alternatively from the ETR offices. If you do not have access to the web, then please contact ETR for advice and support.
ELIGIBILITY
These are the core criteria for the Leader+ Programme and it is essential that applicants can demonstrate that they can fulfil all these criteria:
- In the Local Action Group geographical area ie in the Dungannon & South Tyrone BC or Cookstown District Council areas with the exception of the development zones of Cookstown and Dungannon.
- Relates to central themes either:
- The Use of New Know-How and New Technology.
- Improving the Quality of Life in Rural Areas.
- The project has not commenced.
- The project cannot be funded from another EU source.
- The project currently employs less than 10 persons.
- The project does not have a potential negative environmental impact.
- The project is private sector based.
WHAT IS INELIGIBLE FOR FUNDING?
No funding can be made available for:
- Community sector
- Conventional retail and distributive services
- Businesses in the Urban towns of Dungannon and Cookstown
- Businesses as located within the development zones of Cookstown and Dungannon
- Primary agricultural production, including projects grant-aided under the Operational Programme for Agriculture, Rural Development and Forestry
- The purchase of land and buildings
- Working capital including stock
- Motor vehicles
The above is not an exhaustive list and other limitations may apply within each sector.
INNOVATION
Innovation is a key principle in LEADER+. Project promoters are required to describe how their project is innovative, i.e. how the project is particularly new or creative.
Creative approaches to project design could involve some of the following:
- introduction of a new idea, method or invention
- New products or services distinctive to the local area
- New ways to develop local potential
All applicants will be screened to ensure they are outside the scope of other funding agencies.
DECISION-MAKING PROCESS
After an initial eligibility check, all fully completed application forms will be assessed through an economic appraisal process. This may encompass both a site visit and a request for additional information if appropriate. ETR Ltd will also liaise with other funding bodies to ensure that there is no duplication of funding to eligible projects. Following consideration by an ETR sub group, the Board of Directors will make the final decision. The applicant will be informed of the Board's decision. It is our target that you will be informed about the outcome within 3 months of the closing date. It should be noted that Leader+ funds are limited and that all application are on a competitive basis.
LETTER OF OFFER
At this stage the applicant will be informed of the Board's decision and either a letter of offer issued or the reasons for rejection provided. The Letter of Offer will have certain conditions (such as undertaking Business Start Training) and these will have to be accepted by the applicant within one month of the date of issue. This Letter of Offer will be accompanied by a list of eligible expenditure and the amount and percentage aid granted. Payments will not be issued until the relevant documentation has been submitted and checked. Advanced payments will not be issued and phased payments will only be considered in exceptional circumstances.
MONITORING AND EVALUATION
When in receipt of grant assistance, Project Promoters will have an obligation to comply with monitoring and evaluation inspections. These will be carried out by staff at the ETR office, DARD representatives and EU level personnel. This will be to ensure that promoters have fulfilled all requirements and to assess the impact of projects in terms of targets achieved.
Associated Download
 |
Expression of Interest Form |
|
Background on East Tyrone Rural |
|
