General Funding Sources suited to Community Woodlands
A wide range of funding is available to support the acquisition, management and development of community woodlands.
This page lists a selection of the most commonly accessed national funds, but there may also be local funding available from, for example, windfarm distributors or local authorities. Please note that some of the funds listed here are renewed annually and may be closed temporarily.
For advice on funding specific projects please contact CWA staff.
National Funds
Scottish Forestry: Community Fund
Supports groups and organisations to encourage and support greater use of woods by people to derive health, well-being and community benefits.
Scottish Community Alliance: Community Learning Exchange
Supports learning exchanges between community groups.
Scottish Land Fund
Offers grants of up to £1 million to help communities take ownership of the land and buildings that matter to them, as well as practical support to develop their aspirations into viable projects.
Forestry Grant Scheme
Supports the sustainable management of existing woods and new woodland creation, with support for a range of investments and operations, including long term forest planning, restocking, forest infrastructure and urban woods.
The National Lottery: Awards for All Scotland
A quick way to apply for smaller amounts of funding between £300 and £10,000.
The National Lottery: Grants for Community-led Activity
Supports communities to improve the places they live and the wellbeing of those most in need. Grants of £10,000 – £150,000.
Scottish Landfill Communities Fund
A tax credit scheme, linked to Scottish Landfill Tax, that encourages landfill site operators to provide contributions to Approved Bodies, who can then pass the funds onto community and environmental projects.
SSE Community Investment Funds
Distributes community benefit funds from SSE renewables projects
Crown Estate: Sustainable Communities Fund
Provides early stage financial support for community enterprise projects that contribute to local regeneration and sustainable development.
Woodland Trust: Free trees for schools and communities
Regular programme supplying a range of tree packs to schools and community groups across the UK.
Paths for All: Community path and active travel grants
Supports communities to create, promote and maintain local community paths and active travel routes.
Tesco Communities Fund
Supports thousands of local community projects across the UK.
Co-op Local Community Fund
Supports projects that help people access food, improve mental wellbeing or provide opportunities for young people.
Morrisons Foundation
Awards grant funding for charity projects which make a positive difference in local communities.
Charitable Trusts
The Esmée Fairbairn Foundation
Multi-fund managers
The organisations listed below manage a variety of funds for community and other organisations.
Funding Search
The Funding Scotland website allows you to search a huge database of funding opportunities.
Banner Image:
Photo credit: Abriachan Forest Trust