INSPIRE Ireland Study Visit | Sharing Rural Innovation

Highlights from the INSPIRE (Innovative and Smarter Policy Instruments for Rural Europe) Partner Study Visit to the Ballyhoura Region, Ireland, held on 12–13 May 2026.

The visit brought together project partners from across Europe to exchange knowledge, explore examples of good practice, and discover innovative approaches to rural development, community-led initiatives and Smart Villages.

To find out more, visit the INSPIRE Project website below:

INSPIRE Project Website

For ongoing project updates, you can follow the project's social media accounts:

Latest

Let’s Talk Pollinators: Join a PolliConnect Focus Group in Mitchelstown

Support wild pollinators! Attend a focus group on improving habitats & connecting landscapes.
INSPIRE Ireland Study Visit | Sharing Rural Innovation

Watch: Highlights from the INSPIRE Interreg Europe Semester 5 partner visit to the Ballyhoura Region, Ireland, featuring knowledge exchange and examples of innovative rural development and Smart Village initiatives.
From Heerlen to Ballyhoura: Adapting the Breakthrough Method

Watch: How the Ballyhoura Breakthrough Pilot has adapted the Breakthrough Method to the Irish context, supporting families through person-centred coaching, partnership working and innovative community-based solutions.
Kilmallock Community Sports Hub Officially Launched, Bringing New Opportunities for Health, Wellbeing and Community Connection

The Kilmallock Community Sports Hub was officially launched marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter for community sport, health and wellbeing in Kilmallock.

From Heerlen to Ballyhoura: Adapting the Breakthrough Method

Watch: How the Ballyhoura Breakthrough Pilot has adapted the Breakthrough Method to the Irish context, supporting families through person-centred coaching, partnership working and innovative community-based solutions.
Ballyhoura Development Showcases Smart Village Innovation to European Partners through INSPIRE Project Visit

European partners explore Ballyhoura's rural innovation, Smart Villages, digital tools, and community-led development in two-day INSPIRE visit.
Regional Stakeholders Advance Digital Inclusion and Smart Solutions at INSPIRE Meeting

Ballyhoura Development hosted a meeting to enhance rural digital inclusion and collaboration, promoting smarter solutions and stronger regional cooperation.
The Forgotten Migration

Chris Nikkel follows the story of a forgotten Irish migration to Canada through folk music passed down orally, and a special bicentennial commemoration.
Our Stories: Libraries for Literacy Project

Watch: Stories from the Libraries for Literacy project, highlighting the vital role libraries play in empowering communities and improving literacy throughout the region.
The EU as a Catalyst for Change: Ballyhoura Development’s Support for the Ukrainian Community

Watch & Listen: How EU-supported programmes empower local organisations to respond to emerging needs and support the integration of newly arrived Ukrainians in the Ballyhoura region.
United in Europe: Strengthening Communities in Rural Ireland

Watch & Listen: With open borders, shared values, and EU support 🇪🇺, new arrivals are bringing fresh energy to rural Ireland — helping communities grow stronger, and more connected.
Supporting Mental Health & Wellbeing

Watch & Listen: How Ballyhoura Development, with EU support, works with partners across the Ballyhoura region to promote mental health and wellbeing, creating communities where everyone feels seen, supported, and included.
Rebuilding Futures in Ballyhoura: Supporting Ukrainian Entrepreneurs

Watch & Listen: How Ballyhoura Development, with EU support, is helping Ukrainian entrepreneurs turn ideas into opportunity — creating a stronger, more connected Ireland in the heart of Europe.
Finding Your Voice: Ballyhoura English Conversation Clubs

Watch & Listen: How Ballyhoura Development, with EU support, is helping new arrivals find their voices, build confidence, and connect with their communities through our English Conversation Clubs.

Jobs Board

A weekly round-up of job opportunities and vacancies in the Ballyhoura area compiled by the Local Area Employment Service.
Contact Us

Contact details for Ballyhoura Development offices.
The Ireland Canada Homecoming 2025
Local Area Employment Service

The Local Area Employment Service (LAES) is a new service for job seekers which provides intensive employment support to help clients find suitable, sustainable employment.
Ballyhoura Development Funding

Information on funding available to communities and through Ballyhoura Development
Apply for LEADER Programme Funding

Find out more about the LEADER application process and access relevant forms.
LEADER Programme 2023-2027
Online Job Interviews - Hints & Tips

Online job interviews are becoming increasingly common. The Ballyhoura Jobs Club are here to help you to make your Zoom or Skype interview a success.
Community Law and Mediation Service

An Independent Law and Mediation Centre provide free legal information, advice, advocacy and representation.
Research & Publications

Research papers, publications, studies, policy papers and articles on a diverse range of aspects of Ballyhoura Development's work, delivery models and activities.