Details

The Scottish Connections Fund offers funding to organisations to set up new projects to promote Scotland’s reputation and interests. It is open to individuals and organisations who consider themselves to have a Scottish connection.

You must also be able to demonstrate that your project:

• has a clear link to at least one commitment in the Scottish Connections Framework
• bring together or contribute to interests across sectors of activity (live/work, study, visit, do business, culture) - those multiple links will attract additional weighting during the scoring process
• will increase vibrancy, visibility or connectivity between Scottish diaspora communities outside Scotland, or with Scotland itself
• has a credible communications plan that promotes Scotland’s reputation as a place to live, work, visit, study, and do business
• promotes inclusion and diversity, for example working in historically marginalised communities and groups, such as with minority ethnic Scots and LGBTQ communities, or encouraging participation of women and young people
• is co-funded, where possible

You can use funding to pay for things directly related to the project, for example:

• venue rental
• IT hardware and software
• learning materials
• equipment and implementation costs
• travel and accommodation costs where justifiable

Projects must be completed by the end of March 2026.

Premium information is available exclusively to SCVO members and supporters

Geographical areas funded: Scotland

Fund type

Type of funding:

Grant

Type of cost:

Revenue

Fund award sizes

Minimum:

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Maximum:

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Annually awarded:

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Notes on award amounts:

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Who can apply

Individuals or organisations who consider themselves to be Scottish diaspora or have a Scottish connection, including:

• those with a heritage link, including Caledonian, St Andrew’s or other Scotland-linked community or heritage organisations alumni of Scottish institutions or educational institutions with a focus on Scottish studies
• cultural, musical, theatrical, sporting, linguistic, religious or related bodies with Scottish links
• those with a business or professional relationship, such as promoting trade and investment connections between Scotland and another country
• organisers of major Scottish themed events, such as Highland Games or cultural festivals

When to apply

Now open. The closing date for applications is 5pm on 9 September 2025 (decisions in October).

Next deadline: 9 Sep 2025

How to apply

Full guidance notes and applications forms are available on the Government website. Applications should be submitted via email.

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Exclusions

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Activites funded: Arts and culture Citizenship and community involvement Education and training Heritage and building preservation

Beneficiaries funded: General public Local communities

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Last reviewed 8 days ago