Communities in the Cairngorms are invited to apply for funding for projects celebrating the identity and cultural heritage of the National Park.

The fund gave out £65,000 earlier this year, supporting 11 projects. They included a project to build traditional boats, the creation of digital archives in Glenmore and Braemar and a textile exhibition at Grantown Museum. 

A total of £50,000 is available this year, to be distributed over two funding rounds. 

Eilidh Todd, Communities and Rural Development Manager at the Park Authority, said: "After the huge response to last year’s Communities and Cultural Heritage Fund, we’re delighted to be reopening the fund in 2026, in partnership with the Cairngorms Trust.

It has been inspiring to see the projects funded through the first round come to life.

"We can't wait to see the ideas that emerge through this year's fund and the positive difference they will make to communities across the National Park. Protecting, celebrating and promoting the rich cultural heritage of the Cairngorms is an essential part of caring for this extraordinary landscape, ensuring that its stories, traditions and local identity continue to thrive for future generations. This fund is helping communities take the lead in making that happen, while creating stronger, more connected places for everyone who lives, works and visits here."

Karen Derrick, chair of the Cairngorms Trust, said: “The first round of the Communities and Cultural Heritage Fund was incredibly popular with organisations across the National Park area and we have watched with interest to see how the successful recipients have used their grants. It is wonderful to see them making good progress.

“This new funding shows the commitment to supporting cultural heritage in the National Park. The Cairngorms is shaped not only by its spectacular landscapes, but by the people, stories and traditions that flourish here.

“Our continued collaboration with the Cairngorms National Park Authority will create further opportunities for sustainable growth and development.”

Organisations can apply for grants between £2,500 to a maximum of £10,000, though it is anticipated that the majority of awards will be around £5,000.

The deadline for expressions of interest is 9am on Thursday 3 September. Successful organisations will then be asked to complete a full application by midnight on Sunday 18 October, with decisions being taken by the Cairngorms Trust at their November meeting.

The deadline for expressions of interest in the second round is Monday 1 December.

Further information is available here on the Cairngorms Trust website.