Community Led Local Development Fund (CLLD) 2026-27
What the fund is
The Scottish Borders Local Action Group (LAG) has launched two funds to support innovative, community led projects that strengthen local groups, communities and businesses. The LAG is a volunteer led partnership of individuals and organisations from the private, public and third sectors, dedicated to improving opportunities and quality of life across the Scottish Borders.
Eligible applicants may apply for grants of up to £25,000 through the Community Led Local Development (CLLD) funds.
The Growing the Economy Fund is open to businesses with a clear intention to generate profit—this is the sole eligibility requirement for applicants.
To be considered for the Community Development Fund, projects must demonstrate a meaningful contribution to at least one of the following priority themes:
Net Zero
Poverty Alleviation
Improved Public Services and Tackling Exclusion
Businesses that have previously received funding are welcome to apply again for support with new projects. However, priority will be given to organisations applying for the first time.
Who can apply
Applications are welcomed from:
Small businesses
Private sector bodies
Enterprise organisations
Third sector organisations
Community and voluntary groups
What you can use the funding for
Funding may be applied to both revenue and capital activities. Revenue expenditure includes operational items such as salaries, consultancy, or feasibility studies, while capital expenditure may include fixed assets, equipment, or minor construction works.
The LAG particularly encourages applications that advance Net Zero ambitions, support skills development and apprenticeships, strengthen leadership capability, foster partnership working, or deliver mentoring initiatives.
How to apply
The application process opens on 8 April 2026 and follows a two stage structure. Applicants must first submit an Expression of Interest (EoI), after which eligible proposals will be invited to complete a full application. There will only be two funding rounds closing on 20 May and 1 July 2026. All grant funding must be utilised by 28 February 2027.
To arrange a meeting to discuss your project proposals and assess eligibility, please contact the team at: clldgrants@scotborders.gov.uk
After you apply
The LAG will issue a grant decision within 8 weeks. Successful applicants will be contacted by our Officer within 24 hours of the decision being made. This initial notification is provisional until the Offer of Grant is signed and returned.
An electronic Offer of Grant will be provided within one week and will outline the terms and conditions of the award. Supporting documents, including proof of insurance, will be required. This agreement is legally binding.
Your project may only commence once the signed Offer of Grant has been returned and Permission to Spend has been formally granted. Work must not start prior to receiving this authorisation.
