Volunteering Matters Action Earth Grants Programme Accepting Applications for 2026

Grants for local community groups improving local green spaces through practical outdoor action

Volunteering Matters is offering grants of between £50 and £250 for volunteer groups across Scotland to respond to the ongoing nature and climate crises and support practical outdoor activities in local communities.

Through the Action Earth Grants Programme, groups can apply for funding to make environmental improvements to urban green spaces, such as planting projects or wildlife habitat creation.

Priority will be given to volunteer groups that:

• Work in areas where there is substantial social or economic deprivation.
• Improve and develop the health and well-being of their local community.
• Involve disabled people, vulnerable people, or those at risk of exclusion.
• Encourage and involve people under 26 in practical outdoor conservation.

Applications that make major environmental impacts or involve mass participation will also be considered.

A minimum of 15 volunteers must be involved in the project, each giving at least five hours of volunteering time. Sites to be worked on must be accessible to the public.

The grant can be used for plants, tools, materials. Some volunteer expenses can be claimed.

Groups must use non-peat compost and are encouraged to plant native species only.

All projects need to have completed their activities by 28 February 2027.