£10,000 Community Fund launched to support North Edinburgh organisations
- Cruden delivers new grant opportunity as part of wider Granton Waterfront regeneration
A new £10,000 Community Benefits Fund, supported by Cruden and the City of Edinburgh Council, is open for applications. The flexible funding pot is available to third sector organisations operating in North Edinburgh, offering the opportunity to apply for financial grants or building and landscaping support to help improve local services and community spaces.
The deadline for applications is this Friday – 25th April.
The fund has been launched in connection with Cruden’s delivery of 143 high-quality, energy-efficient homes for social and mid-market rent at Silverlea – part of the city’s wider regeneration ambitions for Granton Waterfront. The homes will include a mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom properties, including wheelchair-accessible accommodation.
Applications for the Community Benefits Fund will be accepted until Friday, April 25, 2025. Organisations can apply for up to £3,000 in grant funding or equivalent Cruden-delivered services (for individual applicants) or up to £5,000 in grant funding or equivalent Cruden-delivered services (for group partnerships).
Cruden has collaborated closely with R2, a network of organisations in North Edinburgh that focuses on partnership working, knowledge sharing, and generating lasting positive change for the local community, to create the fund.
This collaboration has ensured that the fund is closely aligned with the specific needs of the area.
Applications will be assessed based on their alignment with local priorities that promote partnership collaboration and demonstrate a long-term commitment to North Edinburgh. Special emphasis will be placed on initiatives that enhance the local food economy, promote anti-racism efforts, improve green spaces and public areas, and provide support and training for third-sector staff.
Michael Palethorpe, Production and Community Benefit Manager at Cruden, said: “Working closely with the North Edinburgh community, including the incredibly helpful R2 and City of Edinburgh Council, has been essential in shaping a fund that delivers real, lasting impact.
“This initiative ensures that support goes directly to the organisations and groups who are making a tangible difference on the ground.
“It’s a fantastic opportunity for local people and charities to receive a valuable cash boost or practical support to bring their ideas to life and continue enhancing the area for everyone who lives there.”
Housing, Homelessness and Fair Work Convener Lezley Marion Cameron said: “Community development funds matter hugely because they are a community benefit directly related to new housing being built.
“In addition to much needed new housing, I welcome funding from the developers that contributes to community projects and initiatives.”
The North Edinburgh Community Benefits Fund is part of a larger initiative to ensure that regeneration projects provide lasting value to the communities they serve.
This pilot scheme is administered by the City of Edinburgh Council, with support from local stakeholders, including R2.