A Community Led Local Development (CLLD) Fund of over £300,000, financed by the Scottish Government, has opened in the Scottish Borders.
Level 1 Grants (up to £20,000) and Level 2 Grants (£20,001-£50,000) are available.
Due to the tight funding timescale, the first round of applications need to be submitted by 19 September. There is likely to be a second round early in October. All funds must be spent by 28 February 2023.
Open to constituted voluntary organisations, registered small businesses (including sole traders), registered charities and trusts, projects must meet at least one of four priorities:-
- Rural Poverty Alleviation
- Climate Change/Net Zero
- Cultural Economic Recovery
- Inclusive Growth (includes Community-Led Tourism and Creative Industries
Decisions on funding will be made by the Scottish Borders Local Action Group (LAG) which has extensive experience in the administration and delivery of projects across the Scottish Borders.
The LAG is a group of members representing various agencies, public sector, small businesses and voluntary organisations across the Scottish Borders and who previously undertook decision making on LEADER programme projects.
Gary White, Chair of the Local Action Group
“We are very excited about this new fund which will help to alleviate some of the challenges being faced by our rural area following Covid, and assist with shaping the way forward as we look more to Net Zero.
“Our LAG is keen to work with local communities to assist them in delivering new approaches specific to their own economic needs to better shape a more prosperous Scottish Borders for the future.”
More information
If you have any projects which meet the above criteria, more information and an application form can be obtained online or from the LAG Staff Team by emailing CLLDGrants@scotborders.gov.uk or calling 01835 826661. Information can also be found online.
A webinar will also take place from 12noon to 1pm on Thursday 8 September for potential applicants. Anyone wanting to take part should email the address above to register their interest in joining the session.