DONEGAL Local Development CLG (DLDC) has launched its 2025 Annual Report, a snapshot of the organisation’s work and its ongoing efforts to empower and strengthen communities and individuals across the county.
In 2025, €3.4 million was invested in Donegal through 17 programmes delivering local initiatives based on needs identified by communities across Donegal, with a further €654,000 approved for projects under the LEADER 2023-2027 Programme.
DLDC continued in 2025 to build a more inclusive and resilient Donegal, working in partnership with funders to help individuals, families, and communities access supports tailored to their needs, and fostering collaboration between the voluntary, public and private sector.
2025 was a significant year for DLDC, as it celebrated its 30th anniversary. Since its founding in 1995, the organisation has continued to introduce new initiatives to support those most in need and hardest to reach, while growing its supports across employment, community and rural development, social inclusion, climate action and enterprise.
Committed to leading the way, DLDC in 2025 commissioned two pieces of independent research to ensure its programmes and supports are responsive to the needs of the communities it serves. The first examined disability inclusion across DLDC’s operations and the wider community development and employment landscape in Donegal, while the second explored migrant access to support services.
Key highlights from the Annual Report 2025 include a €3.4m invested in Donegal through 17 programmes delivering local initiatives based on needs identified by communities, €654,000 approved under the LEADER 2023-2027 Programme for 20 projects and 422 people supported into full-time, part-time and self-employment
Close to 2,500 people were also supported in accessing accredited training, workshops and soft skills training , close to 300 people were supported into work placement through a scheme (Tús, RSS, CE) and they helped the Donegal Food Response Network to deliver over 100,000 food packages to hundreds of families and individuals.
Over 450 homeowners were supported by DLDC’s Defective Concrete Block Community Facilitators, €241,698 in funding secured by community groups social enterprises with DLDC support, 71 local community groups benefited from capacity building supports and more than 500 volunteers were supported.
Paul Hannigan, Chairman, DLDC, has acknowledged the work of DLDC staff on the ground. He said: “As Chairman, I am delighted to be part of the ongoing work with communities and individuals. There is a huge amount happening, and DLDC’s commitment is clear, especially among the staff on the ground who are making a fantastic contribution across DLDC’s catchment area.”
Padraic Fingleton, CEO, DLDC said: “I am proud of the progress made across DLDC and the positive difference we continue to make. 2025 was marked by growth, innovation, and strong collaboration as we worked alongside individuals, communities, and partner organisations to address challenges, create opportunities, and improve lives. From supporting people into employment to strengthening community organisations, this work reflects both the range and ambition of what DLDC does every day.”