Round 3 Now Open: Rural Community Led Local Development Fund 2026/27

Published: July 31, 2026

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Community organisations across rural West Lothian are invited to submit an Expression of Interest (EoI) for Round 3 of the Rural Community Led Local Development (RCLLD) Fund 2026/27.

The fund supports community-led projects that help address local priorities and improve outcomes for rural communities across West Lothian.

Funding Available

For the 2026/27 programme, approximately:

  • £121,500 is available for revenue projects
  • £37,550 is available for capital projects

Please note that funding for staff costs is only available for time-limited projects.

Funding Priorities

Projects should contribute to one or more of the Scottish Government’s priorities:

  • Eradicating child poverty
  • Growing the economy
  • Tackling the climate emergency
  • Delivering high-quality and sustainable public services

Who Can Apply?

Eligible applicants include incorporated community organisations such as:

  • SCIOs
  • Community Interest Companies (CICs)
  • Development Trusts
  • Community and volunteer groups
  • Social enterprises

Applicants must have a bank account.

Please note that applications from individuals, unincorporated associations and businesses are not eligible.

Projects must be based in, or primarily benefit, eligible rural areas of West Lothian.

Round 3 Deadline

  • Expression of Interest deadline: Wednesday 19 August 2026
  • Assessment week: Week commencing 31 August 2026
  • Award notifications: By Friday 4 September 2026

All funded projects must be completed by 10 March 2027, with final financial claims submitted by 24 March 2027.

Find Out More and Apply

Organisations should submit an Expression of Interest in the first instance. Eligible applicants will be invited to discuss their proposal before being asked to complete a full application.

For guidance, eligibility information and the Expression of Interest form, visit the West Lothian Council RCLLD webpage.

For further information, contact Kat Purser, West Lothian RCLLD Co-ordinator, at RCLLD@westlothian.gov.uk.

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