TWO funds have opened for Borders community groups and organisations which focus on net zero, social inclusion and poverty alleviation.

The funds, launched by Scottish Borders Local Action Group (LAG), the two funds aim to support groups which are dedicated to improving the lives of Borders residents.

The first fund, the Community Led Local Development (CLLD) fund, offers grants of between £1,500 and £20,000 for projects which tackle one of the key themes:

  • Net-Zero/Climate Crisis
  • Social Inclusion
  • Improving Services for the Public
  • Poverty Alleviation (especially for children)

The second fund is the Growing the Local Economy fund.

This fund is open to small and micro businesses, private sector and enterprise organisations, offering grants of £5,000.

These grants do not cover staffing costs.

Any applications will be considered for the Growing the Local Economy fund, however, it must contribute to the above themes.

Hans Waltl, chair of the LAG said “Last year we gave out over £350,000 to nearly 50 community organisations, voluntary groups and young people across the Borders.

"This year, the LAG has created a second fund open to enterprises as well as this year’s version of the community’s fund.

"We look forward to receiving and funding many great ideas again this year that benefit the Borders”.

The LAG works in partnership with Scottish Borders Council (SBC) to deliver the funds, and applicants are asked to use the council's 'expression of interest' form.

To access the form, visit SBC's website.

All grants from the two funds must be spent by February 28, 2025.

The funds are expected to have three funding rounds. The closing dates will be Wednesday, August 14; Wednesday, September 4; and Wednesday, September 24.

All grants must be spent by 28th Feb 2025. Both grant schemes are anticipated to have no more than 3 funding rounds with closing dates of Wed 14th August, Wed 4th Sept and Wed 24th Sept 2024.

 

The LAG is working in partnership with Scottish Borders Council to deliver the grants and will be using the Council’s expression of interest form. The expression of interest form can be accessed on the SBC website.