Uusimaa Leader groups will continue the local development of the countryside as the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry has approved them for the period 2023–2027

Ykkösakseli ry and Pomoväst rf from Western Uusimaa, EMO ry from Central Uusimaa and the Leader Action Group SILMU from Eastern Uusimaa will continue as Leader groups.

-        The funding granted will also ensure the continuity of the excellent Leader activities in Uusimaa during the new period, says Chief Specialist Maria Konsin-Palva from the Uusimaa ELY Centre.

In total, the Ministry approved 52 Leader groups and allocated EUR 223 million in public funding to them for the development of rural areas. The public funding consists of EU, state and municipal contributions. In addition, the funded projects need their own funding to implement the project. Leader activities are part of Finland's national CAP plan for EU's common agricultural policy.

Leader funding will improve the vitality of rural areas, develop local services, support micro-enterprises and increase inclusion and equality.

The Leader groups fund development projects and business subsidies to achieve a more sustainable and smarter countryside

Leader funding is provided for projects and activities that best contribute to their local development strategies. Uusimaa Leader strategies emphasise securing business and employment, village local services and smart solutions, and taking biodiversity and sustainable development into account.

The Leader groups also provide project advice, and they activate residents and communities to develop their home region and its services. Funding decisions are made by the Board of Directors of the Leader Group, which includes a comprehensive representation of local government, local associations and individual residents.

Applications for the new season will open in the spring

Applications for funding for the period 2023–2027 can be submitted later this spring when the relevant national legislation is completed. Each Leader group informs about the opening of the applications in its operating area.

In addition to the Leader groups, the ELY Centre for Uusimaa grants project and business funding for rural areas as well as investment support for farms and start-up support for young farmers. The funding provided by the ELY Centre for Uusimaa prioritises the development of livelihoods, the profitability of farms and, consequently, food supply, energy self-sufficiency and climate-resilient solutions. Applications for these will open in the spring as well.