Urban Forestry Challenge Fund to Reopen on 24 November (Scotland)

Community groups, local authorities, charities and schools across Scotland will soon be able to apply for support to increase tree coverage and green spaces in urban areas. The funding is part of the Urban Forestry Programme, a ten-year initiative aimed at improving biodiversity, promoting education and encouraging community participation.

The Urban Forestry Challenge Fund, managed by Future Woodlands Scotland and supported by bp’s Morven windfarm programme, offers two levels of funding. Small Grants of between £2,000 and £20,000 and Large Grants of between £20,000 and £100,000 are available for projects running up to three years. Projects seeking more than £20,000 are required to secure match funding.

Funding can be used for tree planting, long-term care and maintenance of woodlands, urban forestry management, and educational or engagement activities. Support is also available for project development, including consultancy, staff time and community engagement. Applications will be prioritised from areas with the fewest trees, assessed using the Tree Equity Score.

Eligible applicants include not-for-profit registered or constituted bodies such as community groups, state funded educational institutions, charities, community interest companies, development trusts, local authorities and partnerships.