The LEADER Programme aims to transform the agricultural sector in Guadeloupe by fostering innovative activities and enhancing local products. Beneficiaries include associations, local authorities, and enterprises involved in agriculture and agro-processing. Eligible projects can receive up to €80,000 in public aid, with a minimum project expense of €7,000 excluding VAT. This initiative promotes sustainable development and the circular economy, focusing on local culinary traditions and heritage plants.
Objectives
The LEADER Programme supports the transformation of the primary sector by facilitating innovative activities and promoting a sector-wide approach. It encourages membership in collective structures and aims to enhance sustainable development and the circular economy by utilizing by-products from agriculture and agro-industry. Additionally, it seeks to develop organized sectors around emblematic local products and culinary traditions, such as Bébélé and Chaudage.
Beneficiaries
This programme targets various stakeholders in the agricultural and agro-processing sectors, including:
- Associations under French law 1901 focused on agriculture or agro-processing
- Enterprises and groupings in the community sense
- Local authorities and their groupings
- Chambers of commerce and training organizations.
Excluded: Projects not based in Marie-Galante or lacking a local partnership.
Eligible operations
Eligible investments include both intangible and tangible expenses:
- Intangible expenses: consulting, legal, technical, and financial expertise; salaries for coordination; travel, accommodation, and meal expenses within specified limits; communication costs; and self-construction efforts.
- Tangible expenses: land development, renovation, and fitting work, as well as necessary equipment and office supplies.
Not covered: expenses not directly related to the project or those exceeding specified limits.
Eligibility conditions
To qualify for funding, project promoters must meet the following conditions:
- Tax and social compliance
- Land control (property deed or lease over 5 years)
- Capacity to mobilize personal contributions
- Registered office in Marie-Galante or a clearly identified local partnership
- Compliance with EU regulations and national eligibility rules for structural funds.
Grant amount
The programme has a minimum eligible project expense of €7,000 excluding VAT. Maximum eligible expenses can reach €80,000 without external financing or €120,000 if additional financing sources are included. Public aid can cover up to 80% of eligible expenses, increasing to 95% for small associations with revenues below €60,000.
Frequently asked questions
Can I combine LEADER funding with other grants?
Stacking rules depend on each scheme’s regulations. Check with CC de Marie-Galante for specific guidance on combining funding.
How long does it take to receive funding after application?
The time to receive funding for the LEADER Programme can range from several weeks to a few months, influenced by project complexity and application completeness. For a more accurate timeline specific to your situation, please reach out to CC de Marie-Galante, as they can provide updated processing times and additional requirements.
Is my association eligible for LEADER funding?
Yes, if it is registered under French law 1901 and focuses on agriculture or agro-processing, and meets other eligibility criteria.
What should I do if my LEADER application is rejected?
You can request feedback from the funding body and improve your application for future submissions.
Is the LEADER Programme still active in 2026?
The LEADER Programme 2014-2022 officially ended on December 31, 2022. Future funding opportunities may be available under new programmes.