WESTMEATH COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

Westmeath Community Development (WCD) is a partnership-driven organisation that works to empower individuals and communities across County Westmeath, helping them overcome disadvantage and improve quality of life. As one of the 49 Local Development Companies in the Irish Local Development Network, WCD delivers a broad range of community-focused programmes, from enterprise training to social support services.

Key initiatives include the Trainee Entrepreneur Programme and the "Start Your Own Business" course, which provide intensive mentoring, classroom learning and one-to-one support for aspiring entrepreneurs. WCD also runs the Community Families home-visiting service, specialised home-visiting and befriending schemes for older people, and a panel of trainers to deliver bespoke workshops. In addition, the organisation hosts free training events, LEADER funding networking sessions and the Taste of Westmeath membership scheme, fostering local food, culture and economic development.

Based in Westmeath with active hubs in Mullingar and Athlone, WCD collaborates with local partners, public bodies and the wider community to create sustainable, inclusive opportunities for all residents.