University of Edinburgh Community Grant Scheme open for applications

Community groups and organisations across the Scottish Borders can now apply for funding through the University of Edinburgh’s Community Grant Scheme, supporting projects that create positive social impact and strengthen connections between communities and the University.

The Autumn funding round is now open and applications must be submitted by 10am on 26th October 2026.

Who can apply?

The scheme is open to community organisations whose projects will benefit people living in:

• City of Edinburgh
• East Lothian
• Midlothian
• West Lothian
• Fife
• Scottish Borders

Projects should contribute to one or more of the following United Nations Sustainable Development Goals:

• No Poverty – helping people facing financial hardship and promoting economic inclusion.
• Good Health and Wellbeing – supporting physical health, mental wellbeing and stronger communities.
• Quality Education – improving access to learning, skills development and lifelong education.
• Decent Work and Economic Growth – creating opportunities for employment, training and sustainable economic development.
• Reduced Inequalities – helping remove barriers and improve opportunities for disadvantaged groups.
• Sustainable Cities and Communities – supporting resilient, inclusive and environmentally sustainable places to live.

About the funding

Organisations can apply for grants of up to £5,000 to support stand-alone projects that deliver clear benefits for local communities. Projects should normally begin around four months after the application deadline.

Applicants are also encouraged to explore opportunities to work with the University of Edinburgh as part of their project.

This could include:

• Student or staff volunteering opportunities
• Outreach visits to University facilities and cultural venues
• Student placements supporting project delivery
• Other partnership activities that strengthen links between the community and the University

Organisations do not need an existing relationship with the University to apply.

What cannot be funded?

The scheme supports stand-alone projects and activities, but does not fund:

• General organisational running costs such as rent and utilities
• Building renovations or capital works
• Projects that have already been completed
• Straight continuations of existing projects without significant changes
• Applications from individuals
• Standard for-profit organisations
• Organisations with an annual income exceeding £1 million
• Statutory bodies, including schools

Information sessions for applicants

Organisations interested in applying can attend one of two free information sessions hosted by the University’s Community Team.

Community grantee get-together and information session

• Date: 8th October 2026
• Time: 10:30am-12:30pm
• Location: Work+Plus Play Hub, Inch House Community Centre, Edinburgh

The session will include information about the grant scheme, presentations from previous grant recipients and opportunities to connect with other organisations.

Find out more & book

Online information session

• Date: 15th October 2026
• Time: midday-1pm
• Location: Online via Microsoft Teams

This webinar will provide an overview of the application process and an opportunity for prospective applicants to ask questions.

Find out more & book

How to apply

Further information, eligibility details and the online application form are available here.

Organisations with questions about the scheme can contact the University of Edinburgh Community Team by email at [email protected] or by telephone on 0131 651 5000.