Deadline: 01-Mar-2026
The Blackridge Community Fund provides grant funding for local projects that improve quality of life and strengthen community engagement within the Blackridge community council area. Supported by Gresham House, Netro Energy, and EDF Power Solutions, the fund distributes £46,000 annually, with grants typically ranging from £500 to £5,000, and up to £10,000 over three years for recurring costs. The programme prioritises well-planned, sustainable projects aligned with the local Community Action Plan and benefiting Blackridge residents.
Overview of the Blackridge Community Fund
The Blackridge Community Fund supports community-led initiatives that enhance wellbeing, inclusion, and participation among residents of the Blackridge community council area.
The fund aims to strengthen vibrant, healthy, and sustainable communities by investing in projects that respond to local needs and encourage long-term community benefit.
Who Supports the Fund?
The fund is financed through contributions from:
-
Gresham House
-
Netro Energy
-
EDF Power Solutions
A total of £46,000 per year, adjusted for inflation, is available throughout the operating life of the associated wind farms.
Funding Amounts Available
-
Typical grant size: £500 to £5,000
-
Larger grants: Available for projects with strong community support and clear alignment with fund objectives
-
Recurring costs: Up to £10,000 over three years
All funding requests must demonstrate value for money and clear community benefit.
What Types of Projects Are Funded?
The fund supports a wide range of community activities and costs, including:
-
Projects that enhance quality of life for Blackridge residents
-
Initiatives promoting community spirit and engagement
-
Activities contributing to healthy and sustainable communities
-
Support for equipment or staffing costs
-
Community consultations and engagement activities
-
Running costs for local community groups
-
Maintenance or refurbishment of community facilities
-
Support for recurring costs over a three-year period
-
Outings, social events, or group meals with clear rationale and value
-
Projects promoting sustainability and long-term legacy
-
Activities encouraging local volunteer involvement
Special Considerations for Social Events and Outings
Applications involving outings, social events, or group meals will receive additional scrutiny.
Priority is given to projects that:
-
Benefit vulnerable or socially isolated residents
-
Are directly linked to the core activities of the applying group
-
Clearly justify costs and demonstrate community value
Who Is Eligible to Apply?
Eligible Applicants
The fund is open to:
-
Community groups and organisations working to benefit people in Blackridge
-
Local voluntary groups, clubs, and associations
-
Organisations without formal charity status (charity registration is not required)
Eligibility Requirements
All applicants must:
-
Meet standard fund eligibility criteria
-
Have appropriate safeguarding policies in place
-
Demonstrate sound governance and financial management
-
Submit all required monitoring reports from previous grants before new funds are released
Applicants Based Outside Blackridge
Groups located outside Blackridge may apply if they:
-
Clearly demonstrate direct benefits to Blackridge residents
-
Provide evidence of local consultation and community support
Informal Groups and Partnerships
Informal or unconstituted groups are encouraged to:
-
Apply in partnership with an established local organisation
-
Provide written evidence of agreement between partners
This ensures accountability and effective management of grant funds.
Alignment and Strategic Fit
Strong applications will demonstrate:
-
Alignment with the Blackridge Community Action Plan
-
Coordination with the Community Council, where relevant
-
Clear planning, objectives, and outcomes
-
Evidence of local need and community involvement
Sustainability and Legacy Requirements
For new or pilot projects, applicants must include a sustainability plan that explains:
-
How the project will continue after initial funding
-
How long-term community impact will be achieved
-
How learning or infrastructure will be retained within the community
How to Apply: Step-by-Step
-
Develop a clear project plan aligned with community priorities
-
Define objectives, outcomes, and benefits for Blackridge residents
-
Prepare a detailed and realistic budget
-
Demonstrate value for money and community support
-
Ensure safeguarding and governance requirements are met
-
Submit the completed application with all required documentation
-
Confirm that all previous grant reports are up to date
Common Mistakes to Avoid
-
Submitting poorly planned or unclear project proposals
-
Failing to align with the Community Action Plan
-
Weak justification for outings, meals, or social events
-
Missing safeguarding policies
-
Lack of sustainability planning for new initiatives
-
Outstanding monitoring reports from previous funding rounds
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How much funding can I apply for?
Most grants range from £500 to £5,000, with up to £10,000 available over three years for recurring costs.
2. Do we need to be a registered charity?
No. Formal charity status is not required, provided eligibility criteria are met.
3. Can organisations outside Blackridge apply?
Yes, if they clearly demonstrate benefits to Blackridge residents and provide evidence of local consultation and support.
4. Are social events and group meals eligible?
Yes, but they are subject to additional scrutiny and must demonstrate value, relevance, and benefit to vulnerable or isolated residents.
5. What is meant by sustainability planning?
Applicants must show how the project will continue or leave a lasting legacy after funding ends.
6. Can informal groups apply?
Yes, but informal groups are encouraged to apply in partnership with a constituted local organisation.
7. What happens if previous reports are outstanding?
New funding will not be released until all required monitoring reports are submitted and approved.
Conclusion
The Blackridge Community Fund plays a vital role in supporting local projects that strengthen community wellbeing, inclusion, and resilience. By prioritising sustainability, value for money, and community involvement, the fund ensures long-term benefits for Blackridge residents.
For community groups seeking to deliver meaningful, locally driven initiatives, the fund offers flexible and accessible financial support aligned with Blackridge’s shared community goals.
For more information, visit Foundation Scotland.
