About Leader

MP Richard Benyon with Chairman of the Local Action Group, Ian Ritchie
LEADER is European funding to improve the rural economy and quality of life for people living and working in the North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. LEADER is available to farmers, foresters, community enterprises and rural-based businesses.

Are you in our target area?

Your project must be located within the North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). See the map of the North Wessex Downs AONB.
(For a higher resolution map, please see the Map showing area covered page).

How much money can you ask for?

LEADER awards grants from £5,000 to £50,000 – mainly for capital projects. A maximum of 50% of total costs is typical. However, different grant rates apply, depending on the applicant and the nature of the proposals.

Where does LEADER money come from?

LEADER delivers funding from the Rural Development Programme for England (RDPE). The North Wessex Downs LEADER Programme is run by a Local Action Group comprising people from land-based business, commerce, public and charity sectors in the area. The Local Action Group sets the priority themes and makes the grant decisions. Find out more on the Local Action Group page.