Longford groups reminded deadline is approaching for Fáilte Ireland’s EU Just Transition Private and Community SME Scheme

Fáilte Ireland is reminding eligible private and community SMEs to submit their applications for the Regenerative Tourism and Placemaking Scheme before the deadline on January 13, 2025 at 12noon.

Part of the EU Just Transition Fund, co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the EU, over €4.4million has already been approved for projects under the Private and Community SME scheme, which continues to attract significant interest. Details of these projects will be announced in January 2025, once contracts have been signed. €5.5million was also announced in June 2024 as part of the Digital programme, bringing the total allocated to date within this scheme to almost €10million. 

Applications for the scheme, which opened for Expressions of Interest in August 2023, are being evaluated on a rolling basis, and funding is distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. This means that once all available funding is allocated, the scheme will close, even if it is before the official deadline. Therefore, it is crucial for applicants to submit their fully completed applications as soon as possible to increase their chances of securing funding. 

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Paul Hayden, Head of Just Transition at Fáilte Ireland, emphasised the importance of timely submissions: “The EU Just Transition Fund is a once-in-a-generation funding opportunity with the potential to transform Ireland’s Midlands and build a greener future. We encourage eligible applicants to submit their applications promptly, as funding is limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.” 

There has been a high volume of applications received so far, reflecting the strong interest in this unique funding opportunity for developing regenerative tourism in the midlands. The overall scheme aims to diversify the regional economy through sustainable tourism and job creation. 

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Applicants can find more information and submit their applications through Fáilte Ireland's website Trade Portal. A dedicated Tourism Activator has been allocated to each county to support applicants with their submissions. The full list of Tourism Activators and their contact details can be found here. 

For more information, visit www.failteireland.ie.