Funding: New Big Lottery Scotland Fund Open for Applications

1 December 2015

Big Lottery Scotland has £250million of life changing Lottery funds to commit in Scotland over the next five years. The new funding has been designed to support people and communities most in need across the country and Big Lottery is asking communities to tell them how their approach to what they want to do is people-led, strength-based and / or connected. Funds will be focused on groups that are improving the lives of individuals, helping people to overcome difficulties and become more resilient. Community-led activity will be supported by funding that aims to work with communities to bring real improvements to the places people live and the well-being of those most in need. Over the next five years Big Lottery Scotland plan to make grants of £10,000 to over £1 million, with a streamlined, single-stage process for all grants up to £150,000, which should be able to go from application to award in four months. For organisations and groups seeking more than £150,000 funding there is a more proportionate two-stage process which should be able to go from application to award in six months.

Maureen McGinn, Big Lottery Fund Scotland Chair explained Big Lottery’s new approach saying: “We have refreshed and redeveloped our approach and focus so we will work with communities and organisations to support activity which is people-centred, strengths-based and has good local connections. We are sure our new approach will ensure our Lottery funds make a truly life-changing and inspirational difference to people across Scotland. “In these challenging times we hope this new Lottery money will open the door to support activity which puts people in the lead at the heart of their communities.” More information on Big Lottery Scotland’s new plans, eligibility and details of how to apply visit the Big Lottery Scotland website or email advicescotland@biglotteryfund.org.uk