LEADER programme reaches €42 million in funding and strengthens support for rural investment, says António Ventura - Communication

Secretaria Regional da Agricultura e Alimentação

The Regional Secretary for Agriculture and Food, António Ventura, highlighted today the effectiveness of the LEADER Programme in rural development in the Azores, which has seen an overall investment of €41.8 million and 696 projects supported under PRORURAL+ (2014-2025) and co-financed by the EAFRD.

The government official spoke during a visit to the “Próteas Arline Avelar” project, together with the President of the Board of Directors of GRATER, in São Bartolomeu, municipality of Angra do Heroísmo. This is an initiative aimed at agricultural diversification and the promotion of local products, which is supported by this financial tool.

"LEADER has been a decisive tool in giving a voice to territories and supporting those who want to invest and create opportunities on our islands," stated António Ventura.

The government official added that "projects like this show that, when there is proximity, local knowledge and technical support, it is possible to generate economic, social and environmental value sustainably."  

In the Azores, the LEADER approach is based on Community-Led Local Development (CLLD), implemented by Local Action Groups (LAGs). This methodology is considered strategic for the archipelago, enabling it to respond to the geographical dispersion challenges and the need to diversify the rural and island economy.

The Regional Secretariat for Agriculture and Food reinforced the programme in 2025 with €18.5 million, ensuring that progress reaches all islands equitably and stimulating local job creation, from the agrifood sector to sustainable tourism.

With a view to the new programming period under the PEPAC (2026-2028), António Ventura announced an allocation of €14.4 million and an innovative measure to boost the business fabric in rural areas.

"Under PEPAC, the LEADER programme will award a €15,000 installation premium to companies setting up in rural areas of the Azores, regardless of their economic classification," revealed the Secretary for Agriculture.

The government official stressed that the necessary legislation for the new support cycle is already being prepared, ensuring the continuity of rural and community development until 2028.

For the Regional Secretary, these policies ensure that agriculture and related activities continue to be the driving force for social cohesion and the strengthening of rural communities in the Azores.