My department provides a number of funding streams to support communities across a range of themes.

The CLÁR programme provides funding for small-scale projects in designated rural areas. Measure 1 of the programme supports the development of community facilities and amenities, including community gardens and allotments. The 2026 programme is now closed for applications and I hope to announce successful projects in the coming months.

The Town and Village Renewal Scheme (TVRS) is designed to support the revitalisation of rural towns and villages across Ireland. The scheme funds initiatives designed to rejuvenate town centres, including projects to renovate and refurbish multi-purpose community spaces such as green spaces, including allotments and community gardens. It is my intention to issue a call for proposals under both the main scheme and project development measure of the Town and Village Renewal Scheme later this year.

The LEADER Programme supports a broad range of enterprises and community groups in rural areas. It is delivered through Local Action Groups (LAGs) across rural Ireland, who select and approve projects in their relevant areas in line with their Local Development Strategy.

Funding under the LEADER programme is focused on a thematic approach to rural development, and community gardens and/or allotment projects may be eligible under the themes of i) Rural Infrastructure and Social Inclusion, or ii) Sustainable Development of the Rural Environment, and Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation.

Further information about supports available under LEADER, the LAGs who administer the programme and how to apply for funding is available on my Department’s website at: www.gov.ie/LEADER