- Scottish Connections Fund opens for applications
Applications have opened for a new pilot fund to support
initiatives that promote Scotland’s international connections.
The Scottish Connections Fund is open to bids from individuals
and organisations in Scotland’s international diaspora and a
total of £15,000 has been allocated for this year’s pilot, which
will inform the development of an expanded fund in 2024.
The fund follows a commitment in the government’s Scottish
Connections Framework, which seeks to expand links and networks
with Scottish people living elsewhere in the world, those with
Scottish heritage, alumni of Scotland’s educational institutions,
and people with professional, business, cultural or other links
to Scotland.
External Affairs Secretary said:
“The Scottish Government has long believed that better engaging
our diaspora – family and friends of Scotland globally – can not
only benefit Scotland economically and enrich our culture, but
also improve Scotland’s connections and reputation.
“We know that millions around the world cherish their connections
with Scotland, and we are grateful for the work of people and
organisations who do so much to strengthen these links – whether
that is through the promotion of our culture and heritage or
Scotland’s reputation as a place to live, work, visit, study, and
do business.
“This fund aims to support their work to create more vibrant,
visible and connected global Scottish diaspora, and I encourage
anyone with an interest to submit an application by 8 November,
2023.
Background
Applications can be submitted here: www.gov.scot/publications/scottish-connections-fund-how-to-apply
The Scottish Connections Fund aims to help Scottish diaspora
organisations and communities and their individual members
further the aims of the Scottish Connections
Framework. It promotes increased visibility or connectivity
between Scottish diaspora communities outside Scotland, or with
Scotland itself.
The fund supports innovative initiatives “that bring together
those with a connection to Scotland, promote Scotland’s
reputation and interests, and build greater connections back to
Scotland itself.”
These include, but are not limited to,
- Community projects
- Philanthropic projects
- Events
- Workshops
- Research
