Applications for the new grant funding, exclusively for revenue support for new projects, will open on Monday, 19 October, 2026. The scheme is part of the UK Government’s Pride in Place Programme, a 10-year, £20 million initiative designed to empower local decision-making.
The funding aims to support new projects that align with the priorities identified in the 10-year Irvine Regeneration Plan. Priority will be given to not-for-profit grassroots organisations, voluntary bodies, third sector groups, community interest companies (CICs), and registered charities working within areas of greatest need.
A spokesperson for the Board’s Community Fund Working Group stated, “The Irvine Grant is designed to give our communities the chance to bring their ideas into reality, a fund designed for the community, by members of the community. It has been designed to put local communities, groups and projects at its heart and we are excited to see the applications come in.”
Grants of up to and including £5,000 are available for new projects. The application window closes on Sunday, November 22, 2026. Projects must be delivered in Irvine, with existing activities or projects already underway being excluded.
Application forms can be found online at the Our Irvine website or in paper format at Irvine and Dreghorn Libraries. Drop-in sessions to assist with applications will also be announced.
Irvine is one of 24 Scottish towns receiving £20 million under the Pride in Place programme, with other areas including the Three Towns of Ardrossan, Saltcoats and Stevenston also receiving funding.
