Islands recovery and renewal

We are working with island communities, businesses and partners to build fairer, greener and more prosperous futures for Arran and Cumbrae.

Wee Grants for North Ayrshire Islands

Due to the exceptional level of interest and the popularity of the Wee Grants for North Ayrshire Islands Scheme, the fund has been temporarily paused to new applications.

The volume of applications received has exceeded expectations, and this pause will allow the assessment panel to review and process the applications already submitted.

We appreciate the response from organisations across Arran and Cumbrae and thank applicants for their interest in supporting local island priorities. Further information on when the fund may reopen will be provided on this page and through North Ayrshire Council communication channels.

Wee Grants for Islands is an islands-only fund to enable locally-led action on Cumbrae and Arran. It builds on their strengths and opportunities, supporting local need and strengthening community wealth building.

The North Ayrshire Islands Programme will award grants up to £1,500 for new or existing projects tackling economic, social and environmental challenges aligned with island priorities. For example:

• strengthening local businesses and supply chains
• using community assets for wellbeing
• digital access and online presence
• culture and heritage
• reducing inequalities
• active travel and transport
• climate resilience

Funds awarded must be spent by 31 December 2026.

Application guidance document has been created for further information and support.

Islands programme

The Islands Programme builds on a successful three year pilot that supported recovery and renewal after the pandemic. It is now a long-term commitment to deliver the ambitions of Arran and Cumbrae through:

• community-led decision making
• inclusive and collaborative working
• realistic and action-focused plans
• support for Net Zero and Community Wealth Building

This is in partnership with the Scottish Government and the Highlands and Islands Enterprise.