Deadline: 23-Feb-2026
Carrick Futures, supported by ScottishPower Renewables, provides around £500,000 annually to fund community-led projects in South Ayrshire. The program supports initiatives in six strategic areas, including education, health, youth, community assets, climate, and inequality, offering grants ranging from £500 to over £50,000 for eligible groups.
Overview
Carrick Futures is a community funding program that strengthens local communities in South Ayrshire. Projects must align with the program’s strategic priorities and directly benefit one or more of the following six community council areas:
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Ballantrae, Colmonell & Lendalfoot
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Barr
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Barrhill
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Dailly
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Pinmore & Pinwherry
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Girvan & District
Strategic Priorities
Carrick Futures supports projects aligned with six strategic priorities:
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Access to public services, education, and recreation
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Tackling inequality, including poverty and disadvantage
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Health and wellbeing
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Children and young people, providing opportunities and support
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Sustainable community-led assets
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Climate-smart initiatives, promoting environmental responsibility
Funding Levels
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Small Grants: £500 – £5,000
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Standard Grants: £5,001 – £50,000
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Large Grants: Over £50,000
Eligibility & Community Involvement
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Projects must benefit residents within the six eligible community areas.
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Open to community groups, voluntary organisations, and local initiatives.
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Governance Structure:
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Membership: up to 60 individuals, 10 per community council area
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Trustees: up to 12 Trustees, two from each area
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Projects should align with local community needs and Carrick Futures’ priorities.
Why Carrick Futures Matters
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Supports long-term community development in South Ayrshire
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Promotes equity, inclusion, and opportunity
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Strengthens youth engagement, infrastructure, and environmental stewardship
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Encourages community-led decision-making and representation
How to Apply
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Identify your project focus aligned with the six strategic priorities.
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Confirm your project benefits at least one eligible community area.
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Prepare a project plan including objectives, outcomes, timeline, and budget.
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Submit your application through the official Carrick Futures application process.
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Ensure community engagement and support are demonstrated clearly in your proposal.
FAQs
Q1: Who can apply for Carrick Futures grants?
A: Eligible applicants include community groups, voluntary organisations, and initiatives serving the six designated community council areas.
Q2: What types of projects are funded?
A: Projects must align with the six strategic priorities: public services, inequality, health, youth, community assets, or climate initiatives.
Q3: How much funding can I request?
A: Grant levels:
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Small: £500 – £5,000
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Standard: £5,001 – £50,000
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Large: Over £50,000
Q4: Do projects need to be located within a specific community?
A: Yes, they must directly benefit at least one of the six community council areas.
Q5: How are funding decisions made?
A: Funding decisions are guided by a representative governance structure, ensuring local needs and community priorities are reflected.
Q6: Can a group submit multiple applications?
A: Generally, groups may submit one application per funding round, but multiple projects may be considered if they meet separate eligibility criteria.
Q7: Are environmental or climate-focused projects prioritized?
A: Yes, projects that promote sustainability and climate-smart approaches are highly encouraged.
Conclusion
Carrick Futures is a strategic, community-led funding program that empowers South Ayrshire residents to create lasting social, economic, and environmental impact. By supporting projects from small-scale initiatives to larger community assets, the program ensures that funding decisions reflect local priorities, foster inclusion, and strengthen long-term community resilience.
For more information, visit Foundation Scotland.