The Climate Action Office of Kilkenny County Council is issuing a final call for applications under the new Local Environmental Action Fund (LEAF), providing community groups across County Kilkenny with an exciting opportunity to develop projects that enhance biodiversity, tackle climate change and improve local environments.
The LEAF initiative, supported by IPB Insurance, aims to empower communities to take practical environmental action at a local level while building more sustainable and resilient places to live.
Community groups are encouraged to submit their applications by Tuesday, 11th August at 4pm. All applicants must be a registered member of the Kilkenny Public Participation Network (PPN). Successful projects must be completed by 19th November 2026.
The fund is open to a wide range of community-led environmental initiatives, including biodiversity enhancement, pollinator-friendly planting, community gardens, habitat restoration, litter reduction, water conservation, environmental education and projects that encourage climate action within local communities.
Speaking about the fund, Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council, Cllr. Joe Malone said: “Communities are at the heart of climate action and the LEAF Fund provides a fantastic opportunity for local groups to make a real and lasting difference in their own areas. Whether it’s creating habitats for wildlife, developing greener public spaces or encouraging sustainable living, these projects will benefit both our environment and our communities for generations to come. Best of all, this is 100% funding with no match funding required.”
Mayor of Kilkenny Municipal District, Cllr. Andrew McGuinness, welcomed the initiative, saying: “Kilkenny has a proud tradition of community spirit and environmental stewardship. This fund gives local groups the support they need to turn great ideas into meaningful action. I would encourage every eligible community organisation to consider applying and help create a greener, healthier and more sustainable Kilkenny.”
Speaking on behalf of IPB Insurance, John Hogan said: “IPB Insurance is proud to support the Local Environmental Action Fund and to work with local authorities in helping communities deliver practical environmental improvements. These local projects demonstrate how small actions, when supported and encouraged, can have a significant positive impact on biodiversity, climate resilience and community wellbeing.”
The Climate Action Office is encouraging community groups, residents’ associations, Tidy Towns groups, schools and voluntary organisations to explore the opportunities available through the fund and to submit applications for projects that will make a positive environmental impact in their local areas.
A key aim of the Local Environmental Action Fund is not only to support individual community organisations but also to encourage greater collaboration between groups working towards shared environmental goals. Kilkenny County Council is encouraging partnerships between groups and other local stakeholders to deliver projects that have a wider and more lasting impact. By working together, communities can pool their ideas, skills and resources to create stronger, more ambitious initiatives that benefit everyone and leave a positive environmental legacy for future generations.
Application forms and funding guidelines are available on the Climate Action page of the Kilkenny County Council website- Kilkenny Local Environmental Action Fund (LEAF) 2026 – Kilkenny County Council
For further information, interested groups can contact the Climate Action Team by email at climate@kilkennycoco.ie.
The Climate Action Office looks forward to supporting communities across Kilkenny in delivering innovative local projects that will leave a lasting environmental legacy and contribute to the county’s climate action ambitions.
