Caithness rural community groups can apply for funding to back innovative ideas

Not-for-profit community groups in Caithness are being urged to apply for a special rural fund backed by the Scottish Government.

The Rural Communities Ideas into Action Fund – part of the £3M Rural Communities Testing Change Fund – launched on Monday and invites applicants who have innovative and new solutions to the challenges facing their community.

The fund is supported by £1.5M of Scottish Government funding and will be delivered in partnership with Inspiring Scotland. It will close on Friday, October 8 at noon.

MSP for Caithness, Sutherland and Ross, Maree Todd, said: “Locals know their community better than anyone, and we know that a ‘one size fits all’ approach is not effective in representing the many unique challenges facing our rural communities.

“The Rural Communities Ideas into Action Fund is a fantastic opportunity for local community groups to access funding that will enable them to pilot new ideas and make a difference to their local area.

“I’m a strong advocate for local decision-making and community empowerment, so I’m excited to see the launch of this fund. Successful applicants have a real opportunity to change their communities for the better and even influence future policy.

“I would urge any community groups in Caithness, Sutherland and Ross who are bursting with great ideas to come forward and submit an application ahead of the 8 October deadline.”

Full details of the fund can be found on Inspiring Scotland’s website: www.inspiringscotland.org.uk/rural-communities-ideas-into-action-fund/

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