Community groups and local organisations are being invited to apply for a new round of funding that could transform natural spaces across the Highlands.
The Highland Council has launched the 2025 to 2026 round of the Nature Restoration Fund, offering £300,000 to projects that help restore biodiversity, protect wildlife and build resilience against climate change.
Councillor Ken Gowans, Chair of the Economy and Infrastructure Committee, said he was “very pleased to announce the opening of a new round of the Nature Restoration Fund”.
He said the fund “continues to play a vital role in supporting biodiversity and enhancing natural habitats across the Highlands”.
Over the past three years, the fund has already delivered impressive results, with more than 25,000 trees planted, 9 hectares of wildflower meadows created and 33 hectares cleared of invasive species.
“The recent review of the fund’s impact clearly demonstrates the scale and significance of the work being delivered,” said Cllr Gowans.
He also praised the “remarkable” contribution of over 1,700 volunteers who have helped turn ambition into action.
Established by the Scottish Government, the Nature Restoration Fund supports capital projects that tackle the root causes of biodiversity loss on land and sea.
This year’s priorities include habitat restoration and connectivity, freshwater renewal, invasive species removal and coastal resilience.
Applicants can request between £2,000 and £25,000, with funding available for nature corridors, wildflower planting, natural flood management and restoration using native species.
The Council’s guidance highlights that projects with match funding or in-kind contributions are likely to score more highly.
Labour costs to carry out approved works are eligible, but the fund cannot be used for general revenue costs such as project management.
“This is a valuable opportunity to support local action that contributes to Scottish Government and Highland Council’s wider climate and nature targets,” said Cllr Gowans.
“I look forward to seeing the positive and impactful projects that will be brought forward through this funding round.”
He added:
“The Nature Restoration Fund has consistently attracted strong interest, and we anticipate high demand again this year.
“I would therefore encourage eligible organisations to prepare and submit their applications as early as possible to avoid disappointment.”
The funding must be committed by the end of the current financial year.
All projects must be ready to start by March 2026 and completed by the end of October.
Applications are welcomed from constituted community groups, charities, public sector bodies, development trusts and voluntary or social enterprises.
The Council is operating a rolling application process, with three key deadlines: 3 October 2025, 21 November 2025 and 23 January 2026.
To access the guidance or submit an application, visit the Council’s Nature Restoration Fund webpage.
This is not just a funding stream.
It is a shared commitment to the land, the climate and the communities who call the Highlands home.
