Lerwick, June 2026 – The Shetland Community-Led Local Development (CLLD) programme is now open for bids from community-based projects, with a total of £238,704 available in funding for the 2026/27 period.
The programme, funded by the Scottish Government and administered by Shetland Islands Council on behalf of the Local Action Group, supports sustainable initiatives that strengthen local communities. Funding is split between £49,760 for capital projects and £188,944 for revenue projects.
Applications are invited from Shetland-based social enterprises, community development companies, and constituted not-for-profit voluntary organisations. Projects must align with one of four priority areas: tackling the cost of living crisis and child poverty, increasing community capacity to address rural challenges, transforming the economy to deliver net zero, and creating sustainable public services.
The first round of applications closes on 31 July 2026, with a second round closing on 28 August 2026, subject to remaining funds.
Thomas Coutts, Executive Manager of Economic Development, highlighted the programme’s impact: “This funding enables local community groups and organisations to apply for support for new activity, or to consider new elements within their existing projects. Our staff are here to help and provide advice on the process.”
By investing in grassroots initiatives, the Shetland CLLD programme aims to empower communities, strengthen resilience, and deliver long-term benefits across the islands.
