Scottish Connections Fund: guidance

Guidance on funding to set up a project to promote Scotland’s worldwide reputation. The applications window for the Scottish Connections Fund closed on 9 September 2025.


How to apply

To apply for Scottish Connections funding you should:

  1. Complete the application form and budget template (found in ‘supporting documents’)
  2. Email your completed forms to diaspora@gov.scot by 5pm on 9 September 2025

After you submit your application

When we receive your application we will:

  • send you an email acknowledging this
  • assess your application again the scheme criteria and priorities
  • give you a decision by early October 2025

If your application is successful

If your application is successful, we will send you a grant offer letter.

You will receive a single grant payment in arrears, once your project is complete. Projects must be completed by 31 March 2026.

Once your project is complete you will need to fill out a project report template, detailing:

  • the outcomes reached
  • a breakdown of how funding was spent

If your application is not successful

If your application is not successful we will email you to let you know. Unfortunately due to the number of applications the Scottish Government normally receives for the Scottish Connections Fund we are unable to provide individual feedback.

Further information

If you have questions about the Scottish Connections Fund that are not answered in this guidance, email: diaspora@gov.scot.

Contact

Email: diaspora@gov.scot

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