The Cairngorms National Park Authority is inviting expressions of interest for this year’s Climate Adaptation Fund, which supports capital projects that help communities, land managers and businesses respond to and mitigate the impacts of our changing climate.  

Since launching in 2024, the Climate Adaptation Fund has awarded £640,000 for 30 projects that have taken practical action to deliver long term resilience across the National Park. Past successful projects have included the funding of equipment and collaborative initiatives to enhance wildfire resilience and the planting of trees along the upper River Spey. 

This year, £300,000 is available to businesses, farmers, land managers and community groups with proposals for climate adaptation through capital investment. Eligible activity could include the purchase of new tools or machinery, or works that deliver benefits over several years, such as habitat restoration and land management.

In 2025, more than 60 expressions of interest were submitted with a total value exceeding £1 million for proposed projects, underlining the desire from those who live and work in the National Park to contribute to climate action.

Grant Moir, Chief Executive Officer at the Cairngorms National Park Authority, said: “We’re pleased to offer the Climate Adaptation Fund for a third year. Over the past few years, we've seen increased wildfire risk, more frequent flooding and growing pressure on fragile and precious habitats. The Climate Adaptation Fund aims to help us pull together to be more resilient against these challenges.

“We know there is a huge willingness from people in the National Park to step up the action that is already happening here. This fund is about supporting that practical, on the ground action and we are keen to hear proposals that deliver lasting benefits for nature, people and the local economy.”

The fund’s aims support the delivery of the Cairngorms National Park Partnership Plan 2022 to 2027 net zero objectivesand projects must demonstrate that they fit with the Plan’s priorities and contribute to the delivery of the Scottish Government’s National Climate Change Adaptation Programme.

The expression of interest stage for the Climate Adaptation Fund is now open and closes on 3 April 2026. Successful projects must be completed by 31 March 2027.

Alongside the Climate Adaptation Fund, a wide range of funding and support is available, including the Community Led Vision Fund and Visitor Infrastructure Improvement Fund. These opportunities can be found on the funding page of the Park Authority’s website. 

Further information and support with completing an expression of interest or application is available by emailing [email protected].