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Wee Grants for Islands open for applications
A scheme of funding to support locally-led action on Cumbrae and Arran has reopened for applications.
The Wee Grants for Islands programme will help community groups on the islands to build on existing strengths and opportunities.
It reopened for applications on Friday, 12 June at 9am and aligns with the Community Wealth Building economic model, which sees wealth being retained locally thanks to local authorities and partners increasing employment and using local produce and resources.
Quote: Through this funding, we are aiming to help island communities address small-scale social, economic and environmental issues by delivering improvements. Sometimes, a small amount of money really can make a big difference and we welcome applications from new and existing projects. In the last round of funding, which opened at the end of 2025, it was great to see projects including Cumbrae Community Council, Millport Table Tennis Club, Millport Archery Club, Heather Lodge, Arran Chess Club and Brodick Bowling Club applying and receiving funding. As well as offering vital funds to community organisations, the programme also helps to deliver priorities that are identified in the Local Island Plans, and I would encourage as many organisations and groups as possible on our islands to apply.
Quote from: Councillor Alan Hill, Cabinet Member for Communities, Islands and Housing
To be eligible for grants of up to £1500, projects must deliver one or more of the following funding objectives:
- Assist local businesses to strengthen local supply chains
- Maximise community assets to support well-being
- Provide digital solutions to improve online presence and/or access
- Enhance culture and heritage
- Deliver activities including tackling inequalities and disadvantage
- Deliver active travel and transport solutions or
- Improve preparedness to deal with the impacts of climate change.
The North Ayrshire Island Programme will award the grants, and successful applicants must spend the full award by 31 December 2026.
The fund opened for applications from Friday, 12 June, with applications considered on a rolling basis.
You can find out more and complete an application form on the Council’s Islands Recovery and Renewal web page. The page also includes information about the Islands Programme, which is a partnership with the Scottish Government and the Highlands and Islands Enterprise.
Published: 26 June 2026