About
Foundation Scotland is an independent funder and Scotland's only Community Foundation. Since 1996, they have helped distribute more than £200 million to charities and community groups across Scotland, creating happier, fairer, and more sustainable communities. They work with funders, donors and philanthropists to support local groups and charities, manage community benefit funds from renewables projects like wind farms, and offer social investment opportunities to enable social enterprises and charities to grow and deliver positive social impact.
Funding Opportunities
Whiteside Hill Wind Farm Community Fund
The Whiteside Hill Wind Farm Community Fund supports community projects benefiting those living in areas covered by the community councils of Kirkconnel and Kelloholm and the Royal Burgh of Sanquhar and District. This fund is provided by Netro Energy, which manages the Whiteside Hill Wind Farm. An annual amount of at least £135,000 per year, rising in line with inflation, will be paid into the fund for the operating life of the wind farm, which is expected to be 25 years. The fund opened in 2018. The fund prioritizes projects that contribute to Upper Nithsdale Community Trust priorities, including services and projects delivering economic benefits such as events, festivals, arts, employability activities, and tourism-related projects; activities demonstrating community benefits and building community capacity such as community-managed services, civic pride and environmental projects; and services addressing the needs of disadvantaged groups through early intervention, including young people and aging population engagement. Grant requests support a wide range of costs and activities including equipment costs, running costs for local groups, staff or sessional worker costs, consultations, and maintenance or refurbishment of community facilities. Multi-year awards for a maximum of three years may be applied for. Applications are prioritized when they enhance or are additional to normal service provision, demonstrate community consultation, and show evidence of working in partnership with other organisations.
Whiteside Hill Education and Training Fund
This fund provides bursaries to residents of the Kirkconnel & Kelloholm and Royal Burgh of Sanquhar and District Community Council areas to help them access training and education opportunities that better equip them with the range of skills needed to enter or retain employment. The fund is provided by Whiteside Hill Wind Farm Community Fund. The Whiteside Hill Education & Training Fund is designed to improve the opportunities and livelihoods of people living in Kirkconnel & Kelloholm and Sanquhar & District. Courses leading to formal or recognised qualifications are favoured, though other courses will be considered where applicants can demonstrate how the skills and knowledge gained will realistically support them in securing or retaining work. Awards can cover course fees, study aids and equipment, technical equipment, travel and subsistence costs, accommodation costs, childcare costs, and certain driving lessons. The maximum award for first time applicants is up to £1,500, second time applicants up to £1,000, and further applications up to £500 per year. Courses supported can be on a full-time or part-time basis and may include apprenticeships, SVQs, NCs, HNCs, HNDs, undergraduate degrees, postgraduate qualifications (excluding PhDs), short vocational courses and other courses that meet the fund purpose.
Watten Wind Farm Trust
The Watten Wind Farm Trust, established through a partnership between Watten Community Council and Foundation Scotland, manages funds from multiple wind farm donors for the benefit of the Watten community in Highland, Scotland. The Trust provides grants to support charitable activities that encourage community activity and promote community spirit, improve the ability of groups to meet local priorities, enhance telecommunications infrastructure, provide access to the local environment, support individual development and life chances, improve sports and recreational facilities, and encourage economic activity within the fund area. In 2025, the Watten Panel made a series of multi-year funding awards to support local community groups, allocating £550,000 over five years to eight groups in recognition of the incredible work happening within Watten. This approach reflects a commitment to open and trusting grantmaking. The fund receives annual indexed-linked contributions from five wind farms including Wathegar, Wathegar 2, Bad a Cheo, Bilbster, and Halsary Wind Farms.
The West Benhar Wind Farm Community Benefit Fund
The West Benhar Community Benefit Fund provides an index linked fund of £150,000 per year for the communities of Greenrigg and Fauldhouse in West Lothian and Harthill, Eastfield and Shotts in North Lanarkshire. The fund is a devolved fund with each community managing its funding in line with community priorities and in response to community need. Tailored arrangements are in place with lead organisations in Shotts, Fauldhouse and Harthill, Eastfield and Greenrigg to support the distribution of the Fund. Community groups and organisations working to benefit people in each community within the area of benefit can apply to each of the local funds. Some of the funding for Shotts and Fauldhouse directly supports programmes of activity run by the local anchor organisations. Decisions are made by designated groups within each community, including the Board of Getting Better Together (serving Shotts), the Board of the Fauldhouse & Breich Valley Community Development Trust, and the Board of the Harthill, Eastfield and Greenrigg Group.
The South Kyle Wind Farm Community Benefit Fund
The South Kyle Wind Farm Community Benefit Fund provides assured income to the communities of Dalmellington, Patna, New Cumnock in East Ayrshire and Carsphairn in Dumfries & Galloway. Foundation Scotland administers the fund in partnership with four local organisations. The fund operates on an initial four-year cycle (2023-2027) and distributes funding through four different strands: Paid/Contracted Support, Local Community Funds, Education and Training Schemes, and Flagship Change Projects. The fund's purpose is to enhance the lives of people living in these four communities by contributing to their wellbeing and sustainability. Common themes include improved built and natural environment, increased leisure and tourism opportunities, improved infrastructure and connectivity, an improving economy with training and employment opportunities, and improved opportunities for children and young people. The fund is designed to be purposeful, context-specific, collaborative, and accountable, with decision-making processes that are community-led.
The Gateway Exchange Fund
This fund was created to continue the work of the original Gateway Exchange - a centre in Edinburgh which in the 1980s offered help and support to those returning to the community from prisons and mental health institutions or recovering from drug addiction. The emphasis was on recognising that each individual has potential. This was encouraged particularly through use of the arts and creative self-expression, also through building a strong and connected sense of community. The Gateway Exchange Fund seeks applications which are in line with this spirit of creating innovative solutions to situations which challenge the individual's sense of worth and identity. This fund will support activity across Scotland that empowers people to move on with their lives and fulfil their potential, where they would otherwise not have the opportunity. Priority will be given to projects which help prisoners or ex-prisoners, projects which help those in recovery from drug addiction, and projects supporting women and men recovering from sexual abuse. The Fund usually makes around 2-4 grant awards per year.
The Cour Community Benefit Fund
The Cour Community Benefit Fund supports community projects benefitting those living in the three community council areas of East Kintyre, West Kintyre and Tarbert and Skipness. The fund is provided by Cour Wind Farm Ltd, the company which owns and operates the Cour wind farm on the Kintyre peninsula. An annual payment of £102,500 is available for the operational life of the wind farm which is currently expected to be up to 25 years from when it started operating in 2019. The Fund provides grants to support activities that benefit the communities of East Kintyre, West Kintyre and Tarbert and Skipness. Grants may support a wide range of costs, for example, the costs of equipment, staff or sessional workers, consultations, running costs for local groups, maintenance or refurbishment of community facilities, and so on. The Fund is devolved to three community Trusts each of which serves one of the three areas noted above. Community groups and organisations working to benefit people in the area served by each Trust are eligible to apply. They do not need to be a registered charity but the activity or project they are requesting funding for must be for community benefit. Applications from groups or organisations located outside the area of each Trust may be considered on a case-by-case basis if they demonstrate clear benefit and demand from residents within the community.
The Bill and Lorraine Budge Foundation
The Bill and Lorraine Budge Foundation was established by Bill and Lorraine Budge and supports organizations whose focus relates to the health, education and the well-being of children and young people. The fund is particularly interested in groups working in the Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire and Moray areas but will consider organisations from across the UK. The Fund provides grants to support charitable organisations that operate in Aberdeen and surrounding areas or nationally and internationally, with work focusing on the health, education and well-being of children and young people. Applications are by invitation only. All applicants must meet Foundation Scotland's Common eligibility criteria.
The Beinneun Community Fund
The Beinneun Community Fund supports projects that benefit residents of the two community council areas of Glengarry and Fort Augustus (including Glenmoriston). The fund is provided by Beinneun Wind Farm Ltd, which owns and operates the Beinneun wind farm. An annual payment of approximately £500,000 is available for the operational life of the wind farm, expected to be up to 25 years from when it started operating in 2017. The fund is strategically divided into a Flexible Fund with two components: Single Year and Multi Year funding. The Flexible Fund provides grants to support charitable activities that enhance the economic, social or environmental sustainability of these communities. The fund aims to ensure that successful applications are translated into real projects that make a material difference and deliver a lasting legacy. Single Year funding supports short-term activities and projects, while Multi Year funding provides financial stability for substantial community investments that demonstrate broad community benefits, collaboration with local organizations, comprehensive project plans with clear deliverables, and excellent governance standards. The fund particularly encourages environmentally responsible and sustainable practices, with a focus on projects that tackle the climate challenge at a local level. A Community Panel made up of people aged over 16 who live, work or volunteer in the local area makes recommendations on grant awards from the fund four times per year.
Tannach and District Wind Farm Education & Training Fund
This fund provides bursaries to residents of the Tannach and District Community Councils area in Caithness to help them access training and education opportunities that better equip them with the range of skills needed to enter or retain employment in key sectors of the local economy. The fund is provided from the Tannach and District Wind Farm Trust and aims to improve opportunities and livelihoods of people living in Tannach and District. Awards are made to those seeking to undertake training or education in key sectors including Health and Social Care, Teaching and Education, Food and Drink, Tourism and Customer Services, Culture and Heritage, Communications and IT, Renewables and Energy, STEM, Construction and Trades, and Sea-based industries. Courses leading to formal or recognised qualifications will be favoured, however other courses will also be considered where the applicant can demonstrate how the skills and knowledge gained will realistically support them in securing or retaining work. The fund covers various types of courses including Apprenticeships, SVQs, NCs, HNCs, HNDs, undergraduate degrees, post-graduate qualifications (though not PhDs), and short vocational courses on a full time or part time basis.
Stroupster Wind Farm Education and Training Fund (Dunnet & Canisbay)
This fund provides bursaries to residents of the Dunnet & Canisbay Community Council area of Caithness to help them access training and education opportunities that better equip them with the range of skills needed to enter or retain employment in key sectors of the local economy. The fund is provided from Stroupster Wind Farm Community Benefit Fund and aims to improve opportunities and livelihoods of people living in Dunnet & Canisbay. Awards are made to those seeking to undertake training or education in key sectors including Health and Social Care, Teaching and Education, Food and Drink, Tourism and Customer Services, Culture, Heritage and the Natural Environment, Communications and Information Technology, Renewables, Energy and Climate Change, Engineering, Science, Maths and Technology, Construction and the Trades, and Sea based industries. Courses leading to formal or recognised qualifications are favoured, however other courses will also be considered where the applicant can demonstrate how the skills and knowledge gained will realistically support them in securing or retaining work. Supported courses can include apprenticeships, SVQs, NCs, HNCs, HNDs, undergraduate degrees, post-graduate qualifications (though not PhDs), short vocational courses, and other courses that meet the fund purpose.
StartupMull
The primary objective of StartupMull is to help promising new businesses on Mull to get off the ground by awarding small but transformational grants. The fund was inspired by the excitement, frustration, joy, and sleepless nights which go with setting up and running new businesses on and off the island. Established by the StartupMull Trust, the purpose is to grow the resilience of the Island of Mull and its immediately surrounding islands by improving the economic infrastructure through the support of new business start-ups that benefit the Island community. Grants between £5,000 and £10,000 are available to businesses based on Mull or the surrounding islands. The fund will consider applications in any business area and is designed for businesses at the early start-up stage or those that have been operating for less than 12 months. Existing businesses may also apply if they are seeking to make significant changes such as changing or expanding how they operate their business.
Social Investment Fund
The Social Investment Fund offers blended grant and loan investment to social enterprises, community organisations and charities across Scotland. The fund provides investments ranging from £10,000 to £250,000 per organisation with up to 25% in the form of a grant and the remainder as a loan. Loans are repayable usually over a 10 year period at a fixed 6% interest rate, and appropriate security may be required. The investment can be used for working capital, acquisition of assets, business growth, and capital expenditure. Investments must demonstrate that they meet charitable objectives including preventing and relieving poverty, advancing community development and urban/rural regeneration, or advancing education in Scotland. The fund is designed to fill the gap that exists in funding for organisations seeking to move into debt finance but unable to secure lending from a bank. Decisions are made by the Social Investment Committee, with the assessment process taking an average of 12 weeks.
RWE Camster Wind Farm Community Fund
This fund supports charitable activities or services of benefit to those living in the following Community Council areas in Caithness: Latheron, Lybster and Clyth; Watten; and Tannach and District. The fund is provided by RWE, owner of the Camster Wind Farm, and receives at least £150,000 annually (index-linked) for the Wind Farm lifetime, expected to be 25 years. The annual donation is split equally between the three Community Council areas. The fund supports projects that contribute to outcomes including increased sports and recreational opportunities, safer access through settlements, varied activities for all ages, enhanced community life, economic activity encouragement, vocational skills development, promotion of natural and cultural heritage, sustainable energy use, and tourism development. Applications can range from salaries and core costs to capital projects and feasibility studies. Constituted not-for-profit groups or organisations working to benefit people in these areas may apply. Applicants should demonstrate local consultation, consider partnership working where appropriate, and prioritize local procurement. Recommendations on grant awards are made by a Panel of people who live in the fund area, comprising up to 12 people with four representatives from each of the three Community Council areas.
RWE Bad á Cheò Wind Farm Education & Training Fund
This fund provides bursaries to residents of the following Community Council areas in Caithness; Watten, Halkirk District, and Lybster, Latheron and Clyth. It helps them access training and education opportunities that better equip them with the range of skills needed to enter or retain employment in key sectors of the local economy. The purpose of the fund is to improve opportunities and livelihoods of people living in these areas. Awards are made to those seeking to undertake training or education in key sectors relevant to the area, including Health and Social Care, Teaching and Education, Food and Drink, Tourism and Customer Services, Culture, Heritage and the Natural Environment, Communications and Information Technology, Renewables, Energy and Climate Change, Engineering, Science, Maths and Technology, Construction and the Trades, and Sea based industries. Courses leading to formal or recognised qualifications will be favoured, however other courses will also be considered where the applicant can demonstrate how the skills and knowledge gained will realistically support them in securing or retaining work. Courses supported can be on a full time or part time basis and may include apprenticeships, Modern Apprenticeships, Foundation Apprenticeships, SVQs, NCs, HNCs, HNDs, undergraduate degrees, post-graduate qualifications (though not PhDs), short vocational courses, and other courses that meet the Fund purpose. Awards are made for costs that are directly related to attending your course or apprenticeship, including course fees, study aids and equipment, tools for trade, travel and subsistence costs, accommodation costs, childcare costs, and driving lessons.
RWE Bad á Cheò Wind Farm Community Fund (Halkirk District)
This fund supports charitable activities or services that benefit people living in the Community Council area of Halkirk District in Caithness. The fund is provided by RWE, owner of the Bad á Cheò Wind Farm, and receives at least £44,616 annually (index-linked) for the life of the Wind Farm, expected to be 25 years. Constituted not-for-profit groups or organisations working to benefit people in the area may apply for grants up to £10,000. The fund focuses on five key outcomes: developing services and facilities; sustaining and creating employment; increasing skills and knowledge; preserving and enhancing or giving better access to culture, heritage and the environment; and getting around and getting connected. Applications must demonstrate how they will contribute towards one or more of these outcomes with measurable activities and outputs. The fund emphasizes local consultation, partnership working, sustainable development, and local procurement. A Panel of local residents makes recommendations on grant awards, meeting four times per year to consider applications. Applications from groups based outside the fund area will be considered on a case-by-case basis if they demonstrate clear benefit for residents within the fund area.
River Avich Hydro Open Grants Fund
This fund provides grants for charitable projects and activities that primarily benefit residents of Inverinan, Lochavich, Dalavich, or Kilmaha. It's part of the overall River Avich Hydro Community Benefit Fund. Started in 2021, the fund is provided by Awesome Energy Dalriada (AED), owner and operator of the River Avich Hydro-power Scheme. AED is a community benefit society set up and run by the local community to develop and operate the hydro scheme. The fund supports charitable activity that delivers on strategic themes set out in the Dalavich Improvement Group Community Action Plan, including Housing Development, Community Assets, Young People, Arts and Heritage, Transport Solutions, Environmental Projects, Economic Initiatives, and Health and Wellbeing Services. Awards can support a wide range of costs and activities, including equipment costs, staff or sessional worker costs, consultations and feasibility studies, and repair or refurbishment of community facilities. There is no fixed amount of funding available in any year; the amount available is decided in June each year by Dalavich Improvement Group and is dependent on AED's profitability and other financial commitments.
River Avich Hydro Education & Training Fund
This fund provides bursaries for individuals living in Inverinan, Lochavich, Dalavich, or Kilmaha seeking to improve their employability prospects or develop a new career. Awards can support participation in a range of courses, from short non-certificated courses to post-graduate degrees. Started in 2021, the fund is being provided by Awesome Energy Dalriada (AED), owner and operator of the River Avich Hydro-power Scheme. AED is a community benefit society set up and run by the local community to develop and operate the hydro scheme. Bursaries are available for individuals seeking to improve their employability prospects or develop a new career. The fund aims to support local residents in gaining the skills and confidence required to enter or retain employment in sectors including management of natural resources, STEMD, construction, tourism, hospitality, food and drink, rural development, health and social care, education, creative industries, and other sectors generating benefits for the local community. Bursaries can support a wide range of courses, full or part-time, including driving lessons/tests, Modern Apprenticeships, Foundation Apprenticeships, NC, HNC, HND, undergraduate degrees, postgraduate qualifications (but not PhDs), and short vocational courses. Bursaries can cover travel, subsistence, childcare, driving lessons and tests, study aids, technical aids/equipment, course fees not already being paid for from elsewhere, and accommodation costs.
Plains Community Fund
The Plains Community Fund is a long-term funding initiative for the Plains community in North Lanarkshire, Scotland, established through the Greengairs East wind farm. The fund is expected to operate for approximately 30 years, with over £30,000 available for distribution each year. Grants of between £500 and £1,500 are available to support charitable activities that contribute to improved physical and mental health, reduced isolation or loneliness, increased access to education and employment, improvements to the local environment, or reduced food or fuel poverty. The fund supports community groups and organizations working to benefit people in Plains, with grants available for a wide range of costs including equipment, staff or sessional workers, consultations, running costs, and maintenance or refurbishment of community facilities. Decisions are made by a Community Panel of local residents twice per year.
Pinwherry and Pinmore Community Fund
The Pinwherry and Pinmore Community Fund is funded by SSE community benefit funding from the Hadyard Hill wind farm in South Ayrshire and Nadara from its Assel Valley wind farm also in South Ayrshire. The fund supports projects located within or directly benefiting the community area of Pinwherry and Pinmore. The fund supports a wide range of costs and activities including equipment costs, running costs for local groups, staff or sessional worker costs, consultations, maintenance or refurbishment of community facilities, and other community benefit projects. Funds are available on a rolling basis throughout the year, with applications accepted at any time. The usual timescale for award decisions is 6-8 weeks, though groups must apply a minimum of 4 weeks before their proposed project start date. The fund offers standard grants between £500 and £10,000, and large grants over £10,000 and up to £25,000, though grants of over £25,000 may be considered. Decisions are made by the Pinwherry and Pinmore Community Fund Advisory Panel, which comprises people who live in the area and includes members appointed by Pinwherry and Pinmore Community Council.
Pines Burn Wind Farm Community Benefit Fund
The Pines Burn Wind Farm Community Benefit Fund supports seven communities in the Scottish Borders: Hobkirk, Denholm & District, Hawick & District, Newcastleton & District, Southdean, Upper Liddesdale & Hermitage, Upper Teviotdale and Borthwick Water. Each community receives a share of the annual payment which comprises 64% of the total fund, with tailored arrangements in place with each community through a Memorandum of Understanding between each community council and Foundation Scotland. The overall purpose of the Fund is to contribute to the wellbeing and sustainability of the benefitting communities by supporting charitable activities that make a positive difference to people's lives and economic, social or environmental sustainability of the local area. The Fund can also be used to support activity in line with this overall purpose and in keeping with the community's priorities and needs, which may be described in a Community Action Plan, Local Place Plan or similar document. This is a devolved fund, meaning different arrangements are in place for the different communities that benefit from the fund based on the preference of the communities involved. Community groups and organisations working to benefit people in each community within the area of benefit can apply to their respective local funds. Decisions are made by designated groups within each community, and applicants should contact their respective Community Council for specific information about how the fund operates in their area. The fund is managed by Foundation Scotland on behalf of the seven community councils, with the host community of Hobkirk receiving two shares and the other six communities receiving one share each of the distributed funds.
Patna Education & Training Fund
The Patna Education & Training Fund provides grants of up to £1,500 to help local people aged 16 or over to take up and progress through education and training courses, to increase their skills and enable access to a wider range of further training or employment opportunities. It helps people overcome financial barriers that might otherwise prevent them from starting, completing, or participating fully in courses. The fund is made available by the owners of the South Kyle Wind Farm to improve opportunities and livelihoods for people living in Patna. Participation in a wide range of courses can be funded (full or part-time), including Modern Apprenticeships, Foundation Apprenticeships, NC, HNC, HND, undergraduate degrees, postgraduate qualifications (though not PhDs), and short vocational courses. Funding can be used to cover course fees where these cannot be met from other sources and support costs such as study aids, equipment and accommodation. The fund can also support travel, subsistence or childcare to enable attendance. Awards can support costs that are directly related to attending your course or apprenticeship, including course fees, study aids and equipment (e.g., laptops, software, and stationery), technical aids/equipment (e.g., specialist clothing relating to the course, tools, and other specialist equipment) capped at £700, and travel and subsistence costs at a flat rate of £15 per day.
Patna Community Fund
The Patna Community Fund distributes funds provided by Greencoat from the South Kyle Wind Farm to support community-led charitable activities that support the regeneration and sustainability of Patna. Main grants from the fund can support projects located within or directly benefiting people in the Patna Community Council area. Groups can apply for grants of between £500 and £10,000. Awards can support a wide range of costs and activities including equipment costs, running costs for local groups, staff or sessional worker costs, consultations, maintenance or refurbishment of community facilities. The fund has no deadlines, and groups can apply at any time. Decisions are made by a community panel made up of people who live in Patna.
Old Luce Education and Training Fund
This fund provides bursaries to residents of the Old Luce Community Council area to help them access training and education opportunities that better equip them with the range of skills needed to enter or retain employment. The purpose is to improve the opportunities and livelihoods of people living in Old Luce. Priority is given to courses leading to formal or recognised qualifications, though other courses will be considered where applicants can demonstrate how the skills and knowledge gained will realistically support securing or retaining employment. Participation in a wide range of courses can be funded including Modern Apprenticeships, HGV Licence Training, Foundation Apprenticeships, HNC, HND, undergraduate degrees and post-graduate qualifications (though not PhDs). Awards can cover course fees, study aids and equipment, technical aids, travel costs, accommodation costs, and driving lessons with practical and theory tests.
North Rhins Wind Farm Community Fund
The North Rhins Wind Farm Community Fund supports community activity and development in ten community council areas in Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland. The wind farm became operational in 2010 and will pay community benefit for the 25-year lifetime of the wind farm. Payments are made directly to Community Councils or similar organisations to use or distribute to groups that are active in their communities. The fund supports a broad range of charitable activities of community, not-for-profit groups. Ten community councils are eligible for funding: Cairnryan, Kirkcolm, New Luce, Old Luce, Portpatrick, Stoneykirk, Lochans, Leswalt, Stranraer (which now includes Ochtrelure & Belmont) and Castle Kennedy. Groups wishing to apply must contact their local Community Council directly, as each has its own guidance on applications and grant distribution. Most grants paid out are under £500 to support low-cost local community projects, though larger projects may be considered at the discretion of individual Community Councils.
Nadara Westfield Wind Farm Community Fund (Kinglassie) Education & Training Fund
The Nadara Westfield Wind Farm Community Fund (Kinglassie) Education & Training Fund supports residents of any age living in the Kinglassie Community Council area to take up vocational training and educational courses. The fund is provided by Westfield Wind Farm Limited (WWFL) the owner and operator of the Westfield Wind Farm in Fife. The fund provides grants to help local people take up vocational education and training courses to increase their skills and enable access to a wider range of employment opportunities. In recognition of the financial and practical challenges that can make it more difficult for people in Kinglassie to take up courses, funding can be used to cover part or all of a course fee, travel costs, essential equipment such as books or IT equipment, childcare and subsistence. The Kinglassie Education & Training Fund began as a one-year pilot in 2023, and will now run continuously with up to £10,000 available each year to support local people aged 16 and over take up education and training opportunities. The annual amount available will be reviewed periodically but could continue for the wind farm's operating lifetime, which is expected to be until 2039.
Nadara Westfield Wind Farm Community Fund (Kinglassie)
The Nadara Westfield Wind Farm Community Fund (Kinglassie) supports community projects benefitting those living in the Kinglassie Community Council area. The fund is provided by Westfield Wind Farm Limited (WWFL), the owner and operator of the Westfield Wind Farm in Fife. The fund opened in 2014, with an annual amount of £20,000, rising with inflation, paid into the fund each year for the operating life of the wind farm, expected to be 25 years. The fund provides grants to support charitable activities that enhance quality of life for local residents, contribute to vibrant, healthy, successful and sustainable communities, and promote community spirit and encourage community activity. Grants may support a wide range of costs, including equipment, staff or sessional workers, consultations, running costs for local groups, and maintenance or refurbishment of community facilities. Grant requests range from £500 to £4,000, though funding requests in excess of the maximum and over multiple years (up to 3) can be considered in exceptional circumstances. Applications demonstrating strong community support and significant impact potential are particularly welcomed, especially those supporting priorities in the Kinglassie Community Action Plan. Decisions are made by a Community Panel of up to nine members who live, work, or volunteer in the area.
Nadara Gordonstown Wind Farm Education & Training Fund (Auchterless, Inverkeithny & Fisherford)
This fund provides educational and training bursaries for individuals living in the Auchterless, Inverkeithny & Fisherford Community Council areas seeking to improve their employability prospects or develop a new career. Awards can support participation in a range of courses, from short courses to postgraduate degrees. The fund aims to support residents in gaining the skills and confidence they need to improve their employability prospects or develop a new career, and is not limited to education or training in support of any specific industry or economic sector. Awards can support participation in a wide range of courses, either vocational or professional, and full-time or part-time. Applications to support courses leading to formal qualifications will be favoured over informal courses. Examples of formal qualifications include SVQs, NCs, HNCs, HNDs, undergraduate and postgraduate degrees. The chosen course may be provided anywhere in the UK. Driving lessons may also be supported. The fund is part of the Gordonstown Wind Farm Community Fund, provided by Nadara, the owner of Gordonstown Hill Wind Farm in Aberdeenshire. Multi-year grants can be awarded to support, for example, HNDs or degree courses.
Nadara Gordonstown Wind Farm Community Fund (Fyvie & Rothienorman)
This fund supports charitable projects that benefit people living in the Fyvie and Rothienorman sub-divisions of the Fyvie, Rothienorman and Monquitter Community Council area in Aberdeenshire. The fund was established in 2013 and will be available for the operating life of the wind farm, expected to be 25 years. The fund supports charitable activity that will sustain and develop the life of the community and ensure that the area is an attractive and vibrant place to live, work and visit by making grants to support the costs of relevant projects, services, and facilities. Applications are expected to demonstrate how they contribute to the objectives set out in either the Fyvie or Rothienorman Place Standard reports or Community Action Plans. The minimum grant available from this fund is £501, with no fixed maximum amount. The fund makes awards twice yearly, in May/June and October/November. Groups, businesses and organisations working to benefit people living in Fyvie or Rothienorman can apply, including private businesses where the project provides significant public benefit and fits with the charitable aims of the fund.
Nadara Gordonstown Wind Farm Community Fund (Auchterless, Inverkeithny & Fisherford)
This fund supports charitable projects that benefit people living in the Auchterless, Inverkeithny & Fisherford Community Council area in Aberdeenshire, Scotland. It is part of the Gordonstown Wind Farm Community Fund provided by Nadara, the owner of the Gordonstown Hill Wind Farm. The fund was established in 2013 and will be available for the operating life of the wind farm, expected to be 25 years, with an annual contribution of approximately £24,000. The fund supports charitable activity that will sustain and develop the life of the community and ensure that the area is an attractive and vibrant place to live, work and visit. Applications should demonstrate how they fit with the objectives of the Auchterless, Inverkeithny & Fisherford Community Action Plan 2015. The Panel has indicated a preference for awards made for the purchase of capital items or towards the costs of capital projects, rather than for revenue items such as travel costs or the subsidising of activities, so that the fund will have a long-term impact. The fund prioritizes applications that explore other funding sources, use local procurement where appropriate, consider sustainable development and environmental impact, demonstrate local consultation with beneficiaries, and consider partnership working with other organizations. Groups, businesses and organisations working to benefit people living in the three communities can apply, and there are no set application deadlines - eligible groups can apply at any time.
Middle Balbeggie Wind Farm Education & Training Fund
The Middle Balbeggie Wind Farm Education & Training Fund (MBET Fund) supports residents living in the Thornton Community Council area in Fife who have started or wish to engage in study or training. The fund began in 2017, and is provided by Middle Balbeggie Wind Limited, managed by Netro Energy on behalf of Alpha Real Capital. The fund provides grants to help local people aged 16 or over to take up and progress through education and training courses (including apprenticeships), to increase their skills and enable access to a wider range of further training or employment opportunities. It helps people to overcome financial barriers which might otherwise prevent them from starting, completing or participating fully in courses. Funding can be used to cover part or all of course fees, travel costs, essential equipment such as books or IT equipment, childcare and subsistence. The fund has been operating for the wind farm's lifetime, which is expected to be 25 years, and has awarded over £40,000 in 2023 alone.
Middle Balbeggie Wind Farm Community Fund
The Middle Balbeggie Wind Farm Community Fund supports community projects benefitting those living in the Thornton Community Council area in Fife, Scotland. The fund began in 2017 and is provided by Middle Balbeggie Wind Limited, managed by Netro Energy on behalf of Alpha Real Capital. An annual amount of £19,200, inflation-adjusted, will be paid into the fund each year for the operating life of the wind farm, which is expected to be 25 years. The fund provides grants to support charitable activities that enhance quality of life for local residents, contribute to vibrant, healthy, successful and sustainable communities, and promote community spirit and encourage community activity. Grants may support a wide range of costs, including equipment, staff or sessional workers, consultations, running costs for local groups, maintenance or refurbishment of community facilities and more. Applications are particularly welcome from projects which align with the priorities identified in Thornton's Local Place Plan. Grants in excess of £10,000 can be considered in exceptional circumstances where applications demonstrate strong local support and significant impact potential. Multi-year funding requests for periods of up to 3 years will be considered. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Langhope Rig Wind Farm Education & Training Fund (Sub Fund A)
This Fund provides bursaries to residents of Ettrick & Yarrow, Lilliesleaf, Ashkirk & Midlem and Upper Teviotdale & Borthwick Water Community Council areas to help them access training and education opportunities that better equip them with the range of skills needed to enter or retain employment. The purpose of the fund is to improve the opportunities and livelihoods of people living in these Scottish Borders communities. Courses leading to formal or recognised qualifications are favored, including apprenticeships, Modern Apprenticeships, Foundation Apprenticeships, SVQs, NCs, HNCs, HNDs, short vocational courses, and many other courses. Awards can cover costs directly related to attending courses or apprenticeships, including course fees, study aids and equipment, technical aids/equipment, travel and subsistence costs, accommodation costs, childcare costs, and driving lessons and tests. The fund is provided from Langhope Rig Wind Farm Community Benefit Fund and operates on a rolling basis.
Lairg Wind Farm Community Fund
This fund supports charitable activities of benefit to those living within the Lairg Community Council area. The fund is provided by Lairg Wind Farm Ltd, the operator of the three-turbine wind farm at Cnoc Na Inghinnin. Starting in August 2012, it receives at least £22,000 annually (index-linked) for the wind farm's life, expected to be 25 years. The fund provides grants to support charitable activities that enhance the quality of life for local residents, contribute to vibrant, healthy, successful, and sustainable communities, and promote community spirit and encourage community activity. Grants may be requested to support a wide range of costs and activities, such as equipment costs, running costs for local groups, staff or sessional workers costs, consultations, maintenance, or refurbishment of community facilities. Awards will be prioritised that can demonstrate significant added value through leveraging additional funding from other sources, working in partnership with other groups and organisations to scale up projects and increase opportunities, and projects that have reach beyond one particular group or demographic that have potential to benefit the whole community. Though the upper limit for awards is stated as £5,000, awards above £5,000 can be considered in exceptional circumstances. Grant applications are considered at monthly meetings of Lairg Community Council. Applications must be submitted at least two weeks in advance of a Community Council meeting to be considered at that meeting. The Community Council currently meets on the first Wednesday of each month, excluding December.
Kirkcowan Education & Training Fund
Kirkcowan Community Development Trust offers Education and Training Grants to residents of the Kirkcowan Community Council Area in Dumfries and Galloway. The fund provides grants up to £2,000 per individual to support educational opportunities including university/college courses and short accredited training courses. The Trust is committed to encouraging and supporting people who wish to study at university/college or to undertake short courses which can provide them with new skills and increased job prospects. By investing in educational opportunities, the Trust seeks to support the community of Kirkcowan to develop new skills and to seek new opportunities. Awards can support various costs directly related to attending courses or apprenticeships, including course fees, study aids and equipment, travel and subsistence costs, accommodation costs, and childcare costs. The fund also offers specific Driving Test Grants recognizing that the ability to drive is a significant factor in reaching employment, education and training opportunities in this rural community. The scheme is open to permanent residents aged 16 and over within the Kirkcowan Community Council Area.
Kirkcowan Community Fund
The Kirkcowan Community Fund is provided by Kirkcowan Community Development Trust using funds from the ScottishPower Renewables Kilgallioch and RES Glenchamber wind farms. The fund supports sustainable community development in Kirkcowan through grants to relevant projects, services and facilities. Kirkcowan Community Development Trust's aim is to provide benefit to the community of Kirkcowan through sustainable community development. The Trust has a live Community Action Plan and prioritises projects and activities which fit within the framework of this plan. Grants of any size will be considered for groups and organisations working to benefit people in Kirkcowan. The fund operates on a rolling basis with no fixed deadlines. Decisions are typically made within four weeks of receiving an application. Applications from groups and organisations located outside the fund area must demonstrate a clear benefit for residents within Kirkcowan. The Directors of the Kirkcowan Community Development Trust, who are people who live in the Kirkcowan community, make decisions on grant awards from the fund.
Inch Cape Construction Fund
The Inch Cape Construction Fund supports community projects that help tackle the effects of poverty and inequality while improving the environment and supporting sustainability for residents of the Prestonpans or Cockenzie & Port Seton community council areas. Launched in February 2024, the fund is provided by Inch Cape Offshore Limited, a joint venture between Red Rock Power and ESB Energy, which is developing the Inch Cape Offshore Wind Farm. A total of £45,000 will be available for distribution over the first twelve months. The Fund will support charitable activities that contribute to at least one of the following outcomes: improving physical and/or mental health and wellbeing; reducing isolation or loneliness within the community; increasing access to education, learning and employment; improving the local environment; or reducing food or fuel poverty. Grants may support a wide range of costs, such as equipment, staff or sessional workers, consultations, running costs for local groups, maintenance or refurbishment of community facilities. Projects may benefit children, families, adults or older people, whilst activities helping people overcome additional challenges such as disability, discrimination or other complex life circumstances are especially welcome. Applications are considered on a rolling basis throughout the year. The usual timescale for award decisions is 6-8 weeks but groups must apply a minimum of 4 weeks before their proposed project start date.
Haventus Ardersier Port Community Benefit Fund
Ardersier Port Community Benefit Fund supports community projects benefitting those living in the areas covered by the Community Councils of: Petty and Ardersier, Cawdor and West Nairnshire, Croy and Culloden Moor and Nairn West and Suburban. The fund is provided by Haventus, the owners of the Ardersier Energy Transition Facility (Ardersier Port). The fund opened in August 2024, with an annual amount of £100,000, rising in line with inflation, paid into the fund for ten years. The Fund supports charitable activity that helps improve people's quality of life. Applications focus on activities or projects that enhance quality of life for local communities, promote community spirit and encourage community activity, and contribute to vibrant, healthy, successful and sustainable communities. Grant requests support a wide range of costs and activities including equipment costs, running costs for local groups, staff or sessional worker costs, consultations, and maintenance or refurbishment of community facilities. A Community Panel, made up of people who live, work or volunteer in the four communities, makes recommendations on grant awards. The Panel has up to twelve members (three from each community council area), with each area's community council nominating one member. Groups and organisations working to benefit people in any of the four communities can apply, and the organization does not need to be a registered charity to apply, though funded activities must be charitable in nature.
Harthill, Eastfield and Greenrigg (HEG) Education & Training Fund
The Harthill, Eastfield and Greenrigg (HEG) Education & Training Fund was set up in 2021 and benefits those living in Harthill and Eastfield in North Lanarkshire and Greenrigg in West Lothian. The Fund is part of the main HEG Community Fund provided by the owners of the Torrance and Torrance Extension wind farms. The fund provides grants to help local people with vocational education and training opportunities using local training facilities and contribute to creating job opportunities in the local area. The course may be long term (a year or more) or shorter (1 day or even less, or taught over a period of weeks or months). By providing these grants the Fund aims to encourage and support local people to improve their skills and life chances. Applicants can be taking part in any training course or studying any subject in sectors including renewables & energy, engineering, construction, health and safety, STEM, industries which will benefit local employment including childcare, forestry, plumbing, joinery, electrician, trades, haulage, agriculture, and other education courses that enhance employability.
Halsary Windfarm Community Benefit Fund (Halkirk & District)
The Halsary Windfarm Community Benefit Fund is provided by ScottishPower Renewables and supports community activity and development in the Halkirk District Community Council area. The Fund is worth approximately £30,000 annually for the life of the windfarm, expected to be 25 years. It supports the charitable activities of constituted, not-for-profit groups working to benefit the community through projects that address community facilities, skills and employment, local events, sport and recreation, environmental improvements, youth and education, heritage, and net zero/emissions reduction initiatives. The Fund is administered by Foundation Scotland and is governed by a Panel of local residents who make recommendations on grant awards and advise on fund strategy. Applications which do not clearly fit with these outcomes but which can show strong community support and evidence of need may be considered where funds allow.
Halkirk District Benefit Fund - Individual
The Halkirk District Benefit Fund provides grants to individuals residing in the Halkirk District Community Council area to participate in recreational activities and personal development experiences. The fund advances community development by supporting residents to identify and explore their own needs and take practical action to address those needs. Grants of up to £1,500 are available to people aged 18 and under, while grants of up to £500 are available to those aged 19 and over. Recipients can use funding for sports, arts, heritage, cultural or science activities, educational classes, or other activities that benefit mental or physical health or promote social interaction and inclusion. In order to maximize community benefit, grant recipients must share their experiences with others through mentorship, training, local club involvement, or other means that benefit the wider community. Recipients are expected to attend the HDBF Annual General Meeting to share their experiences.
Hadyard Hill Education and Training Fund (Pinwherry and Pinmore)
This fund provides bursaries to residents of Pinwherry and Pinmore Community Council area to help them access training and education opportunities that better equip them with the range of skills needed to enter or retain employment. The purpose is to improve the opportunities and livelihoods of people living in Pinwherry and Pinmore, geographically defined by the community council boundary. Courses leading to formal or recognised qualifications will be favoured, however other courses will also be considered where applicants can demonstrate how the skills and knowledge gained will realistically support them in securing or retaining a job. Apprentices can also apply, provided it is for a cost they cannot claim back from their employer or another agency. Courses supported can be on a full time or part-time basis and may include Apprenticeships, Modern Apprenticeships, Foundation Apprenticeships, SVQs, NCs, HNCs, HNDs, short vocational courses and many others.
Hadyard Hill Education and Training Fund (Dailly)
The Hadyard Hill Education and Training Fund (Dailly) provides bursaries to residents of the Dailly Community Council area in South Ayrshire to help them access training and education opportunities that better equip them with the range of skills needed to enter or retain employment. The fund aims to improve the opportunities and livelihoods of people living in the area by supporting courses leading to formal or recognised qualifications, as well as other courses where applicants can demonstrate how the skills and knowledge gained will realistically support them in securing or retaining a job. The funding is provided from the Hadyard Hill Dailly Community Fund and is administered by Foundation Scotland. Courses supported can be on a full-time or part-time basis and may include Apprenticeships, Modern Apprenticeships, Foundation Apprenticeships, SVQs, NCs, HNCs, HNDs, short vocational courses, and other courses. Awards can cover costs directly related to attending courses or apprenticeships, including course fees, study aids and equipment (e.g., laptops, software, stationery), technical aids/equipment (e.g., specialist clothing, tools, specialist equipment), travel expenses (bus, train, petrol), accommodation costs, and driving lessons and theory tests where appropriate. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis throughout the year. Grants for short courses can be applied for once per year, with tiered maximum awards: £1,500 for year 1, £1,000 for year 2, and £500 for year 3 and beyond. For multi-year courses, the same caps apply per year of study. Applicants can hold only one grant at any time and are restricted to receiving grant funding from this fund up to a total maximum sum of £3,000 over their lifetime. Foundation Scotland reviews applications and typically provides decisions approximately six weeks after submission.
Hadyard Hill Community Fund (Pinwherry & Pinmore)
The Hadyard Hill Community Fund (Pinwherry & Pinmore) is funded by SSE community benefit funding from the Hadyard Hill wind farm in South Ayrshire. The fund supports projects located within or directly benefiting the community area of Pinwherry and Pinmore. Around £50,000 in total is provided each year, with grants available in two tiers: standard grants from £500 to £10,000, and large grants from over £10,000 to £25,000. The fund supports charitable activities that support the rural regeneration and sustainability of Pinwherry and Pinmore. Awards can support a wide range of costs and activities including equipment costs, running costs for local groups, staff or sessional worker costs, consultations, maintenance or refurbishment of community facilities. The Hadyard Hill Pinwherry and Pinmore Advisory Panel, made up of community councillors and local volunteer members, decides on grant awards with administration provided by Foundation Scotland. Priority is given to projects that demonstrate: making a difference through building community leadership and enabling communities to take ownership of assets; match funding from other sources; local procurement; care for the environment by minimizing environmental impact; local consultation demonstrating community support; and partnership working with other organizations to add value.
Greengairs East Wind Farm Community Benefit Fund
The Greengairs East Wind Farm Community Benefit Fund supports the communities of Greengairs, Upperton, Longriggend, Caldercruix and Plains in North Lanarkshire. Each community receives an equal share of the annual payment which totals an index-linked annual sum of £180,000. This is a devolved fund with each community distributing funding in line with community priorities and in response to community need. Foundation Scotland distributes the Plains Community Fund directly in partnership with a local Panel, while tailored arrangements are in place with lead organisations in the other three communities – Upperton, Longriggend and Caldercruix – who are each responsible for distribution in their communities. Community groups and organisations working to benefit people in each community within the area of benefit can apply to each of the local funds. Decisions are made by designated groups within each community, including the Upperton Residents Committee, the Longriggend Village Council, Caldercruix Community Council and the Plains Panel, which seek to be representative of the community.
Great Glen Energy Co-operative Fund
The Great Glen Energy Co-operative Fund supports charitable activity that provides community benefit in the Loch Ness area of Highland Scotland. The fund originates from the Co-op's stake in the Millennium wind farm purchased in 2008, which produces enough clean green energy to supply around 36,000 homes. The fund makes donations to local community groups and organisations to assist them with creating new projects for the benefit of local people living in designated community council areas including Glen Urquhart, Fort Augustus & Glenmoriston, Glengarry, Stratherrick & Foyers, Dores & Essich, and Inverness West. The fund operates two grant streams: main grants of up to £10,000 for larger projects, and small grants of up to £2,500 that can be applied for at any time with decisions within four weeks. All projects must address at least one of three key themes: Environment, Education, or Equality. The strongest applications meet two or more themes, and all projects should demonstrate positive environmental impacts. Both revenue items (running costs) and capital items (equipment purchases) can be funded. Applications are welcomed from groups and organisations with a constitution set up on a not-for-profit basis. While applicants do not need to be registered charities, their activity must be charitable or for community benefit. The fund will not support activities that are the responsibility of statutory authorities, anti-renewable energy activities, retrospective funding, or the repayment of loans. Small grants are decided by Foundation Scotland with outcomes within four weeks, while main grants are assessed through board meetings held quarterly with telephone or video conference interviews conducted as part of the assessment process.
Glenkens & District Education and Training Fund
This fund provides bursaries to residents of specific Community Council areas in Dumfries and Galloway to help them access training and education opportunities that better equip them with the range of skills needed to enter or retain employment. The fund is provided by Blackcraig Wind Farm Scotland Ltd, delivered in partnership with the Glenkens and District Trust and Foundation Scotland. Participation in a wide range of courses can be funded (full or part-time), including Modern Apprenticeships, Foundation Apprenticeships, NC, HNC, HND, undergraduate degrees, post-graduate qualifications (though not PhDs), and short vocational courses. Awards can support course fees, study aids and equipment, technical aids/equipment, travel and subsistence costs, accommodation costs, childcare costs, and driving lessons where relevant to employment. The purpose is to improve the livelihoods of people living in the fund area, helping them to access training and education opportunities. The education or training opportunity may be long-term (one year or more) or shorter (1 day or even less, or taught over a period of weeks or months), full time or part time.
Glenkens & District Community Fund
The Glenkens & District Community Fund distributes funds provided by Blackcraig Wind Farm (Scotland) Ltd from its Blackcraig wind farm, and Greencoat from its Windy Rig wind farm, both in Dumfries & Galloway. The fund supports projects located in, or directly benefiting people from ten community council areas in the Glenkens region. The purpose of the fund is to support communities to be connected, resilient and carbon-neutral places, helping people choose to live, work, visit, bring up families and grow old in the Glenkens. Priorities are directly linked to the Glenkens & District Community Action Plan and focus on four key areas: A Connected Community, An Asset Rich Community, An Economically Flourishing Community, and A Carbon Neutral Community. The fund offers standard grants between £500-£25,000, large grants over £25,000 via a two-stage process, and multi-year awards up to three years (subject to annual caps). Around £250,000 is available each year. Decisions are made by Glenkens & District Trust, a SCIO board comprising residents from the area of benefit, with fund administration provided by Foundation Scotland.
EDF Power Solutions Corriemoillie Wind Farm Community Fund (Lochbroom)
The EDF Power Solutions Corriemoillie Wind Farm Community Fund (Lochbroom) is a charitable fund that benefits people living in the community council area of Lochbroom in the Highland region of Scotland. The Fund is administered by Lochbroom Community Council and is part of the broader Corriemoillie Wind Farm Community Fund provided by EDF Power Solutions, the company that owns and operates the Corriemoillie Wind Farm in Ross-shire. The Lochbroom Fund was established in 2016 with an initial donation of £1,938.59, with donations rising each year in line with the Consumer Price Index. Awards of up to £250 are available for charitable purposes which will benefit people living in the area served by Lochbroom Community Council. Constituted organisations and un-constituted groups set up on a not-for-profit basis, as well as individuals, working to benefit people in the Lochbroom area may apply. Organizations do not need to be registered charities to apply. Decisions on awards are made by Lochbroom Community Council. Application forms are available at Ullapool Community Hub (paper version), or can be obtained from the Community Council Secretary electronically. The fund supports community action and wellbeing projects in this Ross-shire community.
EDF Power Solutions Burnhead Moss Wind Farm Community Fund (Avonbridge and Standburn)
The EDF Power Solutions Burnhead Moss Wind Farm (Avonbridge and Standburn) Community Fund supports community projects benefiting those living in Avonbridge and Standburn. The Fund is provided by EDF Power Solutions, the owners of the Burnhead Moss Wind Farm. The fund provides grants to support charitable activities that enhance quality of life for local residents, contribute to vibrant, healthy, successful and sustainable communities, and promote community spirit and encourage community activity. Grants may support a wide range of costs, including equipment, staff or sessional workers, consultations, running costs for local groups, maintenance or refurbishment of community facilities. The Fund began in 2016 and receives an annual amount of £34,666, inflation-adjusted, for the wind farm's operating life.
EDF Power Solutions Burnhead Moss Wind Farm Community Benefit Fund (Limerigg & Slamannan)
The EDF Power Solutions Burnhead Moss Wind Farm Community Benefit Fund (Limerigg & Slamannan) supports community projects benefiting those living in Limerigg and Slamannan. The fund is provided by EDF Power Solutions, the owners of the Burnhead Moss Wind Farm. The fund began in 2016, with an annual amount of £34,666, inflation-adjusted, paid into the Fund each year for the wind farm's operating life. The fund provides grants to support charitable activities that enhance quality of life for local residents, contribute to vibrant, healthy, successful and sustainable communities, and promote community spirit and encourage community activity. Grants may support a wide range of costs, including equipment, staff or sessional workers, consultations, running costs for local groups, maintenance or refurbishment of community facilities. Applications can be submitted at any time, and groups don't need to be registered charities to apply.
EDF Power Solutions Burnhead Moss Education & Training (BMET) Fund
The EDF Power Solutions Burnhead Moss Education & Training (BMET) Fund provides grants to help people living in the community council areas of Avonbridge & Standburn and Limerigg & Slamannan (in Falkirk local authority) and also Blackridge (in West Lothian). The fund is provided by EDF Power Solutions, the Burnhead Moss Wind Farm owners. This Education & Training Fund provides grants to individuals resident in any of the three areas, to take up and progress through education and training courses. The fund seeks to encourage lifelong learning, supporting residents of all ages to take up and progress through education and training courses, thereby increasing skills, qualifications and experience within the community. It helps people to overcome financial barriers which might otherwise prevent them from starting, completing or participating fully in courses. For a limited trial period, the fund also offers a grant towards the costs of one attempt at the DVLA Theory and Driving Tests. At a minimum, an annual amount of £26,000, inflation-adjusted, will be paid into the BMET Fund each year for the operating life of the wind farm.
Cockaigne Fund
The Cockaigne Fund supports innovative musical research, development, and performance to delight, inform, and move participants and audiences alike. Since 2022, the Fund has supported creative, challenging, and original projects that explore cultures and traditions, past and present, with a particular interest in historically-informed projects related to classical and traditional music of all periods. The Fund may also consider community projects that push boundaries, strive for excellence, and enable people to access new musical experiences. Priority is given to projects leading to public performance or sharing. The average grant size in 2024 was around £1,500, with a maximum of £5,000. The Fund aims to help projects reach completion and viability. Regarding funding for studies, the Fund will only consider applications related to specialist one-off courses or masterclasses (maximum £500 for bursaries), not full academic programmes. Projects must be based in Scotland or have a clear Scottish connection.
Carscreugh Renewable Energy Park Ltd (CREPL) Community Fund
The CREPL Fund became operational in 2014 and will pay community benefit for the 25-year lifetime of the wind farm. Six community councils in Dumfries and Galloway are eligible for funding: Cree Valley, Kirkcowan, New Luce, Port William, Stoneykirk, and Old Luce. Payments are made directly to Community Councils or similar organisations to use or distribute to active groups in their communities. Old Luce funds are transferred to the Old Luce Community Fund to be distributed through an open grantmaking process. The fund supports a broad range of community activity and development by supporting the charitable activities of community, not-for-profit groups. Most grants paid out by Community Councils from CREPL funds are under £500, allowing more groups to be supported with low-cost local community projects.
Carrick Futures - Health in Pregnancy
The Carrick Futures Health in Pregnancy initiative is a pilot program offering financial support to pregnant individuals in their third trimester living in specific community council areas of South Ayrshire. The fund provides a fixed grant of £250 to support health and wellbeing during pregnancy. Following a fund review, Carrick Futures Trustees decided to focus on supporting children, young people and families with the aim of tackling inequalities and providing benefits to families from the area. The grant can be used for various pregnancy-related expenses including buying equipment, clothes or nappies for the baby, paying for antenatal classes, purchasing pregnancy vitamins or healthy food, or any other financial support related to preparing for the baby's arrival. Recipients will be contacted in the months following their award to provide feedback on how the money was used and its effectiveness, as this is a pilot program being evaluated for potential continuation.
Carcant Wind Farm Community Benefit Fund (Moorfoot)
The Carcant Wind Farm Community Fund (Moorfoot) supports community projects benefiting those living in the Moorfoot Community Council area in Midlothian. The fund is provided by Greencoat UK Wind, the owners of the nearby Carcant Wind Farm. The fund originally opened in 2010 and Foundation Scotland began administering it again in 2019. An annual amount of £4,200, inflation-adjusted, is paid into the fund each year for the wind farm's operating life, which is expected to be 25 years. The fund provides grants to support charitable activities that enhance quality of life for local residents, contribute to vibrant, healthy, successful and sustainable communities, and promote community spirit and encourage community activity. Grants may support a wide range of costs, such as equipment, staff or sessional workers, consultations, running costs for local groups, maintenance or refurbishment of community facilities. Applications that contribute towards the themes and key areas identified in the Moorfoot Neighbourhood Plan are particularly welcomed. The panel also welcomes applications which encourage community activities or groups in recovering from the effects of the Covid pandemic, or towards projects contributing positively to the local environment or tackling climate change locally. Grant awards are decided by a Community Panel made up of people who live, work, or volunteer in the area. Groups and organisations working to benefit people in the Moorfoot area can apply, and do not need to be a registered charity, though they must meet standard eligibility criteria.
Cairnryan Education and Training Fund
This fund provides bursaries to residents of Cairnryan Community Council area to help them access training and education opportunities that better equip them with the range of skills needed to enter or retain employment. The fund is provided by monies from the Cairnryan Community Fund. The purpose is to improve the opportunities and livelihoods of people living in Cairnryan, geographically defined by the community council boundary. Courses leading to formal or recognised qualifications will be favoured, however other courses will also be considered where applicants can demonstrate how the skills and knowledge gained will realistically support them in securing or retaining a job. Courses supported can be on a full time or part-time basis and may include Apprenticeships, Modern Apprenticeships, Foundation Apprenticeships, SVQs, NCs, HNCs, HNDs, short vocational courses and many others including driving lessons where it is expected that driving will increase opportunities. Awards can cover costs that are directly related to attending courses or apprenticeships, including course fees, study aids and equipment, technical aids/equipment, travel costs, accommodation costs, and driving lessons. For short courses under a year, applicants can apply for part or all the course fee, up to a maximum of £2,000. For courses of one year or longer and full-time, the fund offers different levels of grant depending on the year of study, with Year 1 offering up to £2,000, Year 2 up to £1,500, and Year 3 up to £1,000.
Blackford Community Fund
The Blackford Community Fund is a charitable fund to benefit residents of the Blackford Community Council area in Perth & Kinross local authority. The Fund has been created with a donation by Ochil Developments (the developer of the G West development near Blackford) to Blackford Community Council, and community benefit funds provided by EDF Power Solutions, owner of the Burnfoot Hill, Burnfoot North and Rhodders wind farms. The Fund is intended to be a lasting resource for the community of Blackford. The Fund's purpose is to support community groups and charities working in the Blackford Community Council area, providing grants for activities which bring people together to build a sense of community, celebrate and develop Blackford's musical and cultural heritage, help older residents to stay connected, and improve the look and feel of the village. Applications that will benefit older residents of the community will be particularly welcome. A Community Panel made up of people who live, work, or volunteer in the area makes recommendations on grant awards from the Fund. The Panel of up to eight members includes a mixture of community councillors and other members of the community, and typically meets twice each year, around May and September. Eligible groups may apply for more than one grant per year from the fund, and applications for more than £2,000 will be considered where exceptional need and impact to the community can be demonstrated.
Barrhill Education & Training Fund
The Barrhill Education & Training Fund aims to improve the opportunities and livelihoods of people living in Barrhill Community Council area by providing bursaries. These grants help people access training and education opportunities that better equip them with the range of skills needed to enter or retain employment. The fund is provided by Barrhill Community Interest Company, using funds from ScottishPower Renewables and the Kilgallioch Community Benefit Company linked to the Mark Hill and Kilgallioch windfarms. The education or training opportunity may be long-term (one year or more) or shorter (1 day or even less, or taught over a period of weeks or months), full time or part time. For short courses under a year, applicants can apply for all or part of the course fee or associated costs, with a maximum grant of £1,000. For courses of one year or longer, the fund can offer a maximum of £1,000 per year for up to three years. The overall maximum award combining fees and other costs for all courses is capped at £3,000. Participation in a wide range of courses can be funded including Modern Apprenticeships, Foundation Apprenticeships, NC, HNC, HND, undergraduate degrees, post-graduate qualifications and short vocational courses. Awards can support costs directly related to attending courses or apprenticeships, including course fees, study aids and equipment, technical aids, travel and subsistence costs, accommodation costs, childcare costs, and driving lessons. Opportunities leading to formal or recognised qualifications will be favoured, however other courses will also be considered where applicants can demonstrate how the skills and knowledge gained will realistically support them in securing or retaining a job or in setting up their own business.
Barrhill Community Fund
The Barrhill Community Fund is provided by Barrhill Community Interest Company using funds from the Kilgallioch Community Benefit Company and ScottishPower Renewables Mark Hill wind farm. The fund supports positive change by investing in a wide range of inspirational, community-led activity that is strategic, positive and creative and helps create a legacy of lasting impact. The fund makes grants to support the costs of relevant projects, services and facilities that benefit people in the Barrhill community area. Two types of grants are available: small grants ranging from £1,000 to £5,000, and large grants of £5,001 and above. The fund also provides Community Energy grants annually and makes bursaries to individuals for education and training. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and decisions are made by Directors of the Barrhill Community Interest Company who are local community members. Groups and organisations working to benefit people in the three communities can apply, and do not need to be registered charities but must meet standard eligibility criteria.
Barr Education and Training Fund
The Barr Education and Training Fund provides bursaries to residents of the Barr Community Council area in South Ayrshire, Scotland, to help them access training and education opportunities that better equip them with the range of skills needed to enter or retain employment. The fund aims to improve the opportunities and livelihoods of people living in Barr by supporting courses leading to formal or recognised qualifications, as well as other courses where applicants can demonstrate how the skills and knowledge gained will realistically support them in securing or retaining a job. Awards can cover costs directly related to attending courses or apprenticeships, including course fees (where these costs cannot be waived or funded through another means), study aids and equipment such as laptops, software, and stationery, technical aids and specialist equipment relating to the course, travel costs, accommodation costs, and in some cases driving lessons where education opportunities are distant and public transport is not viable. Courses supported can be on a full-time or part-time basis and may include Apprenticeships, Modern Apprenticeships, Foundation Apprenticeships, SVQs, NCs, HNCs, HNDs, short vocational courses, and other educational programs. The funding is provided from the Barr Community Fund and is managed by Foundation Scotland. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, and decisions are typically made within six to eight weeks. Applicants can hold only one grant at any time and will be restricted to receiving grant funding from the Barr Education and Training Fund up to £3,000 total. First-time applicants can receive up to £1,500, second-time applicants up to £1,000, and any further applications up to £500 per year. The fund is open to individuals aged 16 or over living in the Barr Community Council area. Courses undertaken locally in south and central Scotland will be looked upon more favorably than courses requiring individuals to leave the area. Recipients must provide evidence of course acceptance, attendance records, and completion certificates, and are required to provide feedback on their experience to demonstrate the impact of the support received.
Ballantrae Education and Training Fund
This fund provides bursaries to residents of the Ballantrae Community Council area to help them access training and education opportunities that better equip them with the range of skills needed to enter or retain employment. The funding is provided from the Ballantrae Community Fund and aims to improve the opportunities and livelihoods of people living in the area. Courses leading to formal or recognised qualifications will be favoured, however other courses will also be considered where the applicant can demonstrate how the skills and knowledge gained will realistically support them in securing a job, retaining a job or in setting up their own business. Industries which will benefit job retention in the areas of hospitality, construction transport/logistics, motor maintenance, tourism, forestry and timber technologies, rural development, agriculture (including crofting), environmental conservation, health and social care benefiting the local community will be prioritised. The fund is open to individuals aged 18 or over living in the Community Council area of Ballantrae, with priority given to people between the age of 18 years and 25 years.
An Suidhe Wind Farm Community Fund
An Suidhe Wind Farm Community Fund supports community projects benefitting those living in the areas covered by the Community Councils of: Glenorchy and Innishail (Eredine only); Inveraray; Furnace, and by Dalavich Improvement Group. The fund is provided by RWE Renewables and Green Gecco, the owners of An Suidhe Wind Farm near Loch Awe. The fund opened in 2011 and provides an annual amount of £28,500, rising in line with inflation, for the operating life of the wind farm. In 2024, the annual contribution was £48,352. The fund provides grants to support charitable activities that enhance the quality of life for local residents, contribute to vibrant, healthy, successful, and sustainable communities, and promote community spirit and encourage community activity. Grant requests to support a wide range of costs and activities will be considered, such as equipment costs, running costs for local groups, staff or sessional worker costs, consultations, and maintenance or refurbishment of community facilities.
Achlachan Wind Farm Community Fund
This fund is provided by Whirlwind Renewables, developers of the Achlachan Wind Farm. Starting in April 2019, the fund receives approximately £30,000 annually (index-linked) for the life of the Achlachan Wind Farm, expected to be 25 years. The fund supports community activity and development in the Halkirk & District Community Council area, prioritising projects within a four-kilometre radius of the Achlachan Wind Farm. Grants are available to support the charitable activities of constituted not-for-profit groups working to benefit the communities therein. Applications must meet at least one of the following outcomes: developing services and facilities, sustaining and creating employment, increasing skills and knowledge, preserving and enhancing or giving better access to culture, heritage and the environment, or getting around and getting connected. Applications that do not clearly fit with these outcomes but can show strong community support and evidence of need may be considered where funds allow.
At a Glance
- Total Funding Opportunities
- 96
- Active Now
- 64
- Source Domain
- foundationscotland.org.uk
Catalog Data
This funder profile was automatically extracted from grant listings. Information may be incomplete.
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