Community groups across rural Highland are being invited to apply for a share of £1 million in funding, with a new round of support now open for expressions of interest.

The funding, delivered through the Highland Local Action Group, is aimed at projects that improve community assets and tackle inequality affecting children, young people and families.

Organisations can apply for larger grants of up to £25,000, with the expression of interest stage open until noon on Friday 24 April.

Successful applicants will then be invited to submit full proposals, with final funding decisions expected by the end of June.

A separate small grants scheme will open on 28 April, offering up to £10,000 through a simpler application process, with funding allocated on a rolling basis.

The programme is focused on delivering measurable outcomes across two key priority areas.

The first priority supports improvements to community assets, including making facilities more resilient, improving access to local services, reducing carbon impact and strengthening organisations.

The second priority targets inequality, with a focus on creating new opportunities for young people, reducing barriers for families facing poverty and improving overall wellbeing.

Projects must be ready to begin from 1 July 2026, or earlier for smaller grants, and must be completed by the end of February 2027.

All applications must be based on current costs and supported by valid quotations where required.

Funding decisions will be made by the Highland Strategic Local Action Group, bringing together representatives from across the public, private and third sectors.

The scheme is open to rural communities across Highland, although organisations within Inverness City are not eligible in this round.

Full eligibility criteria and guidance has been published on the Highland Council website

Badenoch and Strathspey are also excluded, with funding in that area managed separately.

The programme continues to build on previous investment, including projects such as the Tain and District Bike Track redevelopment, which received support in an earlier round.

With applications now open, community organisations are being encouraged to put forward projects that can deliver lasting impact and strengthen life across rural Highland areas.