A place-based approach

We think of community funds as money that can be used to build on these opportunities and assets, supporting a range of local priorities.  This place-based approach makes a lasting difference to local people’s lives.

Every community is different.  No matter where the money has come from, we work flexibly alongside communities to ensure funds meet locally determined priorities, determine the most effective ways to distribute money and respond to changing circumstances.  You can read more about how we do this at Fund management for communities.

Our track record

Whether you’re a community council, a community company or a donor, we can help you at any stage in the lifetime of a community fund.  From Orkney to Dumfries & Galloway, Scottish Borders to Aberdeenshire, we’ve supported communities all across Scotland to develop and implement their local fund strategies.

How we're making a difference

• More than 400 communities and 50 donors entrust us with local community fund administration (as at July 2025).
• We currently steward over 100 community benefit funds across Scotland, working with communities and energy businesses to distribute over £13 million per year.
• We support 86 community fund panels, community companies and community councils involving nearly 700 residents in local grantmaking decisions.
• We have supported incorporated community organisations in Highland, South Lanarkshire and South Ayrshire to review and adapt their governance to ensure it was more transparent and accountable
• Alongside communities, we have developed 33 local Education & Training Funds across Scotland, distributing £2.5 million over the last ten years, supporting 1582 individuals to gain additional skills and qualifications and improve employment prospects.
• Throughout 2025, we provided secretariat and fund administration services for seven incorporated community organisations, managing community benefit funding in different parts of Scotland.
• We’ve enabled 44 communities to invest funds for the long-term through our pioneering Community Invested Funds.
• We’ve helped more than 20 community organisations to set up and run their own local grant-giving arrangements and advisory panels. We continue to provide ongoing support and advice.
• We’ve helped nearly 100 Community Councils and Development Trusts establish localised small grant schemes, and a further 160 run Micro-grants schemes.   

Working alongside communities, we've helped raise the impact and profile of community benefit funding - find out more here and in the links below.