• To exploit the economic benefits of our cultural and craft traditions for local people.
• to develop new skills which can open new economic opportunities

There is a strong cultural tradition in North Antrim and this can be viewed as an economic resource for the benefit of local people. There will be two types and levels of grant which will be offered under this programme.

• There will be a limited number of technical assistance/feasibility study packages available. These will be to a maximum of £2,500 (at 75% of eligible costs). These type of businesses tend to be higher risk than most as they are at the innovative end of the market, so this grant aid will enable to manage this risk by enabling high quality research into starting the business or looking at new angles for an existing business.
• There will be a higher level grant of up to £50,000 (at 50% of eligible costs) for capital equipment/workshop provision for craft or cultural projects. An element of promotional or marketing costs could also be considered.

The Leader+ programme cannot fund projects which are exclusively retail, wholesale, distribution and accommodation. There must be an element at least of production, providing a service, craft or creating a product.

Specific Criteria

• Must create new employment or at least sustain existing employment
• Must make use of local cultural and craft resources
• For the lower level of grant aid must be willing to share information and experiences
  
  go to application page . . .