Orkney landscape
Orkney landscape
Orkney landscape

Investing in a better future for all.

What we do

We're investing £20 million over 10 years to support community-led projects across Orkney.

The Orkney Fund provides both capital and revenue funding to help bring your ideas to life. From small community initiatives to larger transformational projects, we support work that creates lasting positive change across our islands.

Our four priority areas reflect what matters most to Orkney communities:

Community and cultural wellbeing

Strengthening the heart of Orkney life.

We support projects that bring people together, celebrate culture, improve wellbeing, and help communities thrive.

Safe, accessible and vibrant spaces

Creating places where everyone belongs.

We fund improvements to community buildings, outdoor spaces, and facilities that make Orkney more accessible and welcoming.

Heritage, conservation and regeneration

Protecting what makes Orkney special.

We invest in projects that preserve historic buildings, conserve natural landscapes, and regenerate communities for future generations.

Local enterprise and creative support

Growing Orkney's economy and creativity.

We back businesses, social enterprises, creative ventures, and initiatives that create jobs and opportunities across our islands.

How it works

Applications for the 2026/27 funding round are now closed.

Download the Year 1 application guidance (PDF)

Our process is designed to make sure funding reaches the projects that matter most - from your initial idea through to a final Board decision.

1

Expression of interest

Tell us about your project and how it fits with the Fund's priorities - you don't need to have everything figured out at this stage.

We'll review your submission against our eligibility criteria, with a focus on community benefit and strategic fit.

2

Invitation to apply

If your EoI is a good fit, we'll invite you to submit a full application with more detail, including costs, delivery plans, and the outcomes you're hoping to achieve.

3

Assessment and review

We assess each application against a set of agreed criteria: strategic fit, community benefit, deliverability, value for money, and long-term impact.

4

Board decision

The Orkney Fund Board makes the final call on all funding decisions. We'll let you know the outcome after the Board meeting.

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