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Funding applications open for community-focussed projects in Edinburgh

CGF Broomhouse Street Party
The Broomhouse Street Party, made possible through the Community Grants Fund

Do you have an idea that will make a difference to your local community? Apply now for a grant of up to £5,000 to make your idea a reality.

The Community Grants Fund was set up in 2007 to kickstart projects that benefit local communities. It is part of the Council’s ongoing commitment to empowering communities and fostering grassroots initiatives.

There are 13 local funds, each covering a different area of the city. If you are part of a community group with a project in mind, see if you can apply to your local Community Grant Fund .

The next application deadline is Monday 26 August, excluding Western as the deadline is Monday 12 August.

If you are in Leith, applications for the Leith fund should be submitted to between 16 August and 10 October this year.

The Community Grants Fund has supported some fantastic projects in the past, such as The Friends of Victoria Park pumphouse mural, ‘Place to Pause’ at The Eric Liddell Centre and the Broomhouse Street Party – and yours could be next!

Culture and Communities Convener, Councillor Val Walker said:

Our communities are the lifeblood of our city and we’re committed to ensuring that they have the resources to bring their ideas to life.   

As this is the final round of funding for 2024, the amount available in each neighbourhood varies. Our City Centre, Liberton/Gilmerton, and Portobello/Craigmillar neighbourhoods have already allocated their available funding for 2024, applications will be open again in the spring of 2025.

I always enjoy seeing the projects in our communities come to life, and I’m really excited to see the projects that apply for funding during this round of applications.

Chair of Friends of Victoria Park Lucy Metcalfe said:

 Thanks to community grant funding from the Council, the park has been greatly enhanced by the vibrant artwork that replaces the unsightly dirty and graffitied walls of the old pumphouse. The students from the local high school were able to spend a week working with a renowned artist, developing, painting and teamwork skills. The mural is a testament to the commitment of the school and its students to the park and the local community. The Friends are very proud of this achievement.

For the best chance of securing a grant, apply by the relevant August deadline. Applications will be reviewed in October and successful applicants will be advised.

Published: August 2nd 2024