The Rural Development programme and LEADER funding

LEADER is part of the Rural Development Programme for England (RDPE), which aims to improve the competitiveness of farming and forestry, support a diverse and successful rural economy, and help to develop vibrant and thriving rural communities.

Parts of West and East Sussex and Hampshire have been designated to receive LEADER funding. This means that farmers, growers, small rural businesses and community groups located in a LEADER area may qualify to apply for grants towards projects that will help achieve the aims of the programme and the particular priorities of the LEADER area.

RDPE opened for business on 18 January 2008 and will run to 2013; it replaces the England Rural Development Programme (ERDP). The RDPE is jointly funded by the EU, through the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development and the UK Government.

• What is the RDPE LEADER grants programme?
  Information about the Rural Development Programme for England (RDPE) Liaison entre actions de development rural (LEADER) programme.

• Examples of projects funded by RDPE LEADER
  Information about projects which have received LEADER grants.

• Frequently asked questions
  Frequently asked questions about LEADER and the application process.

• How to apply for RDPE LEADER funding
  The application process, eligibility criteria and Expression of Interest forms.

• Sussex Downs and Low Weald LEADER
  The priority themes for funding and a map showing the LEADER area.

• Three Harbours and Coastal Plain LEADER
  The priority themes for funding and a map showing the LEADER area.

• To contact us
  How to contact the LEADER project team.