Kinross-shire Fund

About this fund

The Kinross-shire Fund supports community groups and organisations within the 73 square miles of Kinross-shire. It is dedicated to improving the lives of people across the shire by awarding grants to a wide range of local projects, groups, and voluntary organisations. All working towards the shared vision of making Kinross-shire a great place to live.

The Fund has awarded over 130 grants so far – from pre-school groups and clubs for older people, to local gardening and sports activities. At present, it has around £9,700 for grant distribution. Based on previous years, around 74% of organisations that apply are awarded funding.

Purpose of this fund

The Kinross-shire Fund aims to support activities that will develop the vibrant life of the Kinross-shire community and ensure the area is an attractive place to live, work, and visit.

Applications must contribute to at least one of the following themes:

• Community events
• Community information
• Community transport
• Community welfare or healthcare support
• Physical amenities
• Recreational facilities
• Support for the care of older people
• Support for existing voluntary organisations. 

Additional criteria

Priority will be given to funding applications which:

• strengthen existing local organisations by helping them to purchase equipment and resources
• improve or develop local community facilities
• encourage community activity and promote community spirit
• support services for older people and people with disabilities
• improve information about local community issues

Applicants should explore other possible funding sources, including local fundraising, where possible. 100% funding will only be considered in exceptional circumstances.

Local suppliers should be used for the provision of goods and services, where possible (‘local’ means within the Kinross-shire area).

Higher priority will be given to capital projects which make a lasting difference.

Grants must be spent within one year of the award.

Applications for grants above the maximum stated above may be considered where the applicant demonstrates a significant impact. If you wish to apply for a grant above the maximum, please contact the Fund Contact (see below) to discuss your proposed project before completing the application. 

Who can apply?

Groups and organisations working to benefit people in Kinross-shire can apply. The annual income in the most recent financial year of your organisation must be less than £250,000.  

You don’t need to be a registered charity to apply, but your group/organisation must meet our standard eligibility criteria.

What can’t be funded?

Information on what we cannot fund can be found here.

How are decisions made?

The Kinross-shire Fund has an Advisory Committee made up of local community representatives. It has the following remit:

• To decide on funding priorities
• To determine the distribution policy and balance immediate grant giving against contributions to the endowment fund
• Solicit and support applications to the Fund
• Make recommendations on funding applications
• Monitor the impact of the Fund and effectiveness of grants awarded.

The Committee is made up of representatives from:

• Cleish & Blairadam Community Council
• Fossoway Community Council
• Kinross Community Council
• Milnathort Community Council
• Portmoak Community Council
• Kinross High School
• Kinross-shire Partnership    
• Perth & Kinross Council
• The Kinross-shire Fund Development Committee

More information about how decisions are made can be found here.