The Neighbourhood Ecosystem Fund seeks to inspire, encourage, and enable communities to explore and develop ambitious ecosystem restoration projects locally. It also seeks to raise awareness about the importance of locally-led ecosystem restoration and address barriers faced by communities.

The first round of funding included projects to support freshwater and wetland habitats, undertake an ecological survey of the aquatic, amphibian and invertebrate biodiversity of ponds and woodlands, and to develop plans for community-led peatland restoration.

Community groups can apply for up to £13,500 and the deadline for applications is midday Monday 3rd March 2025. You can find out more on the Inspiring Scotland website.

Funding will be administered by Inspiring Scotland and is supported by the Carman Family Foundation, the Scottish Government’s Nature Restoration Fund (managed by NatureScot) and other funders.