The council set up Community Grant Funds in 2007 to kickstart projects that benefit local communities. It is part of the council’s ongoing commitment to empowering communities and fostering grassroots initiatives.

There are 13 local funds, each covering a different area of the city. The total amount of funding available in local funds depends on how many people live in each area. If there’s any money left over after this round, another round of applications will open later this year. Unlike previous years, grants will be awarded a maximum of three times a year.

Funding panels are made up of local community representatives, such as ward councillors, community councillors, and representatives of community organisations.

The Community Grants Fund has supported some fantastic projects in the past, such as ‘Place to Pause’ at The Eric Liddell Centre and the Broomhouse Street Party.

For the best chance of securing a grant, apply by the deadline of May 20, 2024. All applications will be reviewed in June.

Culture and communities convener, Councillor Val Walker, said: “Our communities are the lifeblood of our city and we’re committed to ensuring that they have the resources to bring their ideas to life.

“From the Pentlands to Portobello and beyond I’m really excited to see the projects that apply for funding during this round of applications.”