Community groups and organisations across Moray are being invited to apply for a share of £100,000 as the Coastal Community Fund opens for its second year.
The fund will support projects that improve coastal communities, with grants available for initiatives linked to Moray’s coastline and marine environment.
Community led projects can apply for between £10,000 and £20,000, while larger strategic partnership projects can bid for grants of between £20,000 and £50,000.
Applications opened on Friday 24 July and will close at 5pm on Friday 18 September.
Eligible applicants include community groups, charities, social enterprises, development trusts, educational institutions and public sector organisations.
Projects must have a clear connection to Moray’s coast or sea and be located within 12 nautical miles of the Moray coastline.
After applications have been assessed, shortlisted projects will go forward to a public vote on the Moray Engage platform, giving local people the opportunity to help decide which schemes receive funding.
The first year of the fund attracted strong public support, with almost 9,000 votes cast.
Projects funded during the inaugural year included the Adventure by the Sea Festival, accessibility improvements at Burghead Beach, upgrades at the Scottish Dolphin Centre and improvements to community facilities in Spey Bay and Portknockie.
Councillor Marc Macrae, Chair of Moray Council’s Economic Development and Infrastructure Services Committee, said:
“The response to the Coastal Community Fund in its first year showed just how many ambitious ideas there are across Moray’s coastal communities.
“It was also fantastic to see so many people taking part in the public vote and helping to decide which projects should receive funding.
“I’m pleased that we are able to offer this opportunity again and would encourage eligible groups to apply.”
Moray Council says the remaining Crown Estate funding has been set aside to support longer term strategic investment across the next five years, helping deliver lasting benefits for coastal communities.
Further information on eligibility and how to apply is available from Moray Council by clicking here
