100:100 – Cairngorms youth fund marks double milestone

The Cairngorms Youth Local Action Group (Youth LAG) is celebrating two major milestones as it surpasses £100,000 in support for over 100 projects across the Cairngorms National Park. Building on this success, a new £25,000 youth-focused funding pot is now open for applications, continuing the group’s mission to empower young people living, learning and working in the National Park. 

From funding training for young aspiring tennis coaches and mountain leaders, to film and photography equipment, woodworking tools, school orchards, bike sheds and book clubs for young people experiencing isolation, the Youth LAG fund has supported a wide range of inspirational projects for young people since its launch in 2021.   

The fund’s criteria ask projects to consider skills development, nature connection, inclusion and inter-generational activities. The initiative is managed by young people, for young people, and is a partnership project delivered through The Cairngorms Trust, funded by the Cairngorms National Park Authority. The fund is open to individuals and groups under the age of 30 who live in the Cairngorms National Park or plan to carry out their project activities within the National Park boundaries. 

Phoebe Nicol, member of the Cairngorms Youth LAG, said: “Being part of the Youth LAG has been incredible. It’s amazing to support projects that make a real difference, whether it is helping young people or groups start a nature project, giving them the tools to run a community event or supporting individuals to further their learning in a certain topic. This new round of funding is another opportunity for young people to take the lead.” 

Alan Smith, Outdoor Learning and Engagement Manager at the Cairngorms National Park Authority, said: “This fund has grown into a powerful platform for youth empowerment and is one of the most established Youth LAGs in Scotland. The young people involved in running this fund have inspired groups in other parts of Scotland and have been invited to visit them to share knowledge on how the Cairngorms Youth LAG works and how to manage funds effectively.  

“It’s inspiring to see young people shaping their futures and contributing to the communities and landscapes of the Cairngorms.” 

The new round of funding opened for applications on 22 May 2025 and will close on 23 June 2025. Full details and application forms are available on the Cairngorms Trust website. 

Image: Abernethy Primary School received funding for local artist Robbie Synge (right) to work with school pupils to establish and plant a new orchard at Abernethy Primary School. Twelve new fruit trees were planted, with every child in the school taking part in the planting. Image credit: Catriona Parmenter