What is the Rural Action Fund?
The Youth Scotland Rural Action Fund is a micro-grant fund supported by The Gannochy Trust. This fund was created in response to the challenges which rural youth groups are facing in funding the delivery of community-based universal youth work. It will make small awards to enable youth groups operating in rural communities to provide more and/or better youth work opportunities for young people.
Supported by:
Who can apply?
Youth Scotland member youth groups which:
- Are based in Scotland;
- Operate in rural communities with a maximum of 2 Full Time Equivalent Paid (FTE) staff members (If you have more than 2 FTE paid staff members for fixed periods e.g. during holidays, please contact us as you may still be eligible for funding); There is no limit to the numbers of volunteers;
- Are universal access for all young people;
- Can demonstrate a lack of alternative universal access provision for young people in their community (as a result of their rural location);
- Work with young people aged between 5 to 25 years old;
- Want to try new things, enhance existing provision or increase capacity to deliver a specific project or programme;
- Plan to spend the grant within 6-9 months of receiving it;
- Can provide evidence of an annual turnover less than £200,000;
- Are applying for between £100 and £750. No match funding is required.
When are the application deadlines?
Applications should be received by:
- 12 noon, Friday 2 May 2025
Please note that the second deadline is subject to availability of funding. Don’t wait to apply if you have a project or activity that you need funding for.
What happens after I apply?
Once we have received your application, we will review this to make sure all the information we need is included. Applications will be considered by a Grants Panel and we aim to let you know whether you have been successful within 6 weeks of the deadline.
How do I apply?
Download the two documents at the bottom of this page to begin your application. You will find the application form itself underneath, guidance on completing the form and the reporting form successful applicants will complete.