Find answers to common questions about The Orkney Fund.
As a general guide, the Board will normally fund up to 50% of the total project cost. We'd encourage applicants to look for match funding from other sources too.
Minimum and maximum award levels are set out in the current guidance for each funding round, and these may change in future years.
Alongside open applications, the Board may also support larger strategic projects where appropriate.
Applications are open to constituted community groups and organisations in Orkney, including:
We can't accept applications from individuals or groups that aren't constituted.
The Orkney Fund is different from other local funds in two key ways.
The Fund runs for 10 years from 2025, backed by a £20 million UK Government pledge, giving stability and year-on-year investment.
Funding decisions are made by 12 independent Board members, guided by the UK Government-approved 4-year Investment Plan and 10-year Strategy. The Local Authority acts only as the accountable body, it doesn't decide which projects get funded.
Projects need to align with at least one of the Fund's four strategic priorities:
You can find more detail on each priority elsewhere on the website. If you're not sure whether your idea fits, get in touch with the development officer at the published email address.
Yes, the Board may approve funding on the condition that match funding is secured.
Applicants should provide:
This helps the Board assess how viable the project is.
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Still have questions? Email us at theorkneyfund@orkney.gov.uk.