Projects in the Western Isles aimed at transforming towns and neighbourhoods can now apply to a new £10 million multi-year fund.

The Scotland Loves Local Fund, launched by the Scottish Government, aims to encourage people to think local first, and support businesses and enterprises in their community. Community shops, digital marketing schemes, or larger construction projects could all be eligible for support.

The fund will provide match funding of between £5,000 and £25,000 for projects run by groups including town centre partnerships, community and charity trusts, and chambers of commerce.

MSP for Na h-Eileanan an Iar, Alasdair Allan, welcomed the news:

“The financial support available through this fund will help build local wealth by bringing new creative projects and activities to towns and neighbourhoods, supporting local enterprises to improve the areas in which they are based.

“As local businesses and communities throughout the Western Isles begin their recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic, schemes such as the Scotland Loves Local fund will enable projects to access the support they need in order to create a stronger and more sustainable future for our towns and local areas.

“I would urge local projects to apply for the Scotland Loves Local Fund and encourage people in the Western Isles to continue to support local businesses at every opportunity.”

Applications for the funding are now open and will close at 17:00 on Friday 1 October.