Scotland Loves Local grant winners

Over 100 organisations have received a £1.5 million funding boost to help revitalise cities, town centres and neighbourhoods across Scotland.

The first round of grants from the Scotland Loves Local (SLL) Fund aims to encourage support for local economies which were impacted by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. The Fund includes help for restoring local tourism, make town centres more environmentally friendly and sustainable, and support communities to refurbish shop fronts and public spaces ahead of the festive season.

In total, 110 projects have been offered awards. Successful bids include those promoting sustainable tourism in the Small Isles, free bags for life to all residents in Eday, an ebike scheme in Duns, support for the Forth Valley Food and Drink Festival and Annan's The History Town project, as well as a number of community and market garden and outdoor gym projects. 

Community Wealth Minister Tom Arthur said:

“The Scottish Government is supporting our communities to deliver renewed local prosperity. I hope these grants will help spur on many of the projects which are vital to unlocking the innovation and action which will make our towns and neighbourhoods stronger. The Fund provides 50% match funding for local projects between £5,000 and £25,000 and targets funding towards local economies that have been impacted most due to the pandemic, including those in areas with pre‑existing inequality. 

"It reinforces our determination to support all our communities as they recover and will help strengthen the vital backing being provided through the Scotland Loves Local marketing campaign and gift card scheme. These grants are part of Scottish Government measures to create a fairer, healthier, greener, inclusive and more sustainable economic recovery.”

The £10 million Scotland Loves Local programme extends over five years and encourages people to think and choose local first by supporting their businesses and communities.