Lanarkshire Community Led Local Development Funding Programme

You can apply for Community Led Local Development (CLLD) funding to support rural projects in North and South Lanarkshire. The fund helps local groups develop ideas that strengthen communities, boost the rural economy and improve wellbeing. Grants normally range from £10,000 to £50,000, although larger partnership grants can be considered, and projects must be completed by March within the same financial year.

The fund is open as of April 2026 with a budget of £310,000 and is primarily for revenue funding. All grants will be awarded by November 2026. Projects must complete spending by March 2027.

What the fund supports

CLLD helps rural communities tackle local challenges by building skills, testing new ideas and encouraging people to work together. Your project must support at least one of our rural priorities:

1. Transport and connectivity
2. Recreation and community facilities
3. Rural entrepreneurial activities and business infrastructure
4. Jobs, training and employability
5. Environmental and net-zero sustainability
6. Rural poverty and wellbeing
7. Tourist and visitor infrastructure to support tourism and business

It should also link to at least one of the Scottish Government's overarching aims and objectives for the fund, which are:

1. Drive community action on climate change
2. Enhance rural services and facilities, including transport initiatives
3. Enhance natural and cultural heritage, tourism and leisure
4. Support food and drink initiatives, including short supply chains and community food
5. Build co‑operation between groups in Scotland, the UK and Europe
6. Empower communities to exchange learning, realise their potential and create opportunities for all

What you can apply for

You can apply for:

• revenue costs
• capital costs
• feasibility and design work

CLLD is a competitive fund and seeks matched funding for projects where appropriate. We can award up to 100% of project costs, depending on fit with the criteria and available budget. In 26/27, the funds are primarily revenue funding with limited capital funding.

Who can apply

We welcome applications from:

• community and voluntary organisations
• social enterprises, charities and not‑for‑profit groups
• public sector organisations
• Local Action Group members

How to apply

Submit an expression of interest telling us about your organisation, your project idea and estimated costs.

You will need to upload:

• a project plan
• procurement evidence showing value for money
• governance documents
• recent accounts and bank statements
• any relevant regulatory paperwork
• Fair Work First compliance information

We cannot fund projects that exclude people, support political or religious activity, repay debts, or cover costs incurred before funding is approved.

Decisions are made by the Local Action group (LAG), which represents local cross-agency organisations and communities in Lanarkshire.