The Scottish Government is launching a new funding opportunity called the Global Solidarity Fund (GSF), designed to support small, Scottish‑based organisations, community groups, and diaspora‑led initiatives to take part in international development and global citizenship work.
“Supporting global citizenship in Scotland remains a key priority in our international development programme, and I am delighted to launch the new Global Solidarity Fund. This initiative demonstrates our resolve to better meet the emerging challenges of our time, supporting Scottish charities, social enterprises and local groups whose work strengthens Scotland’s contribution to the UN Sustainable Development Goals. This reflects our continued commitment to work together, in partnership, to make a positive difference – both abroad and here at home”.
Minister for Equalities & International Development – Simita Kumar MSP
This fund has been designed to be accessible and supportive, particularly for organisations that may be new to applying for government funding, and offers grants of up to £50,000 across three funding streams, including support for:
· Organisational capacity strengthening
- Grant size: up to £10,000
- Grant length: up to 1 year
These grants support small Scottish‑based civil society organisations to strengthen their organisational capacity. This may include activities such as training, developing systems or processes, or accessing specialist support to improve effectiveness, resilience, and sustainability.
· Global citizenship engagement in Scotland
- Grant size:
- up to £5,000 for small charities and social enterprises
- up to £2,000 for unaffiliated groups
- Grant length: up to 1 year
These grants support activities that increase understanding of global issues and encourage participation in global citizenship, primarily within Scotland. This may include community events, engagement activities, or communications and learning initiatives.
· Partnership‑based work with organisations in Malawi, Rwanda, and Zambia.
- Grant size: up to £50,000
- Grant length: up to 2 years
These grants support small Scottish‑based organisations to work in partnership with organisations in Malawi, Zambia, or Rwanda, with a focus on locally led development, shared learning, and long‑term sustainability.
Organisations do not need previous experience of Scottish Government funding to apply, and first‑time applicants are welcome.
On the 23rd June, an information session will be held online to provide an overview of the fund, explain who can apply, the key requirements and how to complete an application using the Flexi Grant website, with an opportunity for participants to ask questions. You can register here.
Find out more & apply here.
Support is available via the Global Solidarity Fund helpdesk: GlobalSolidarityFund@niras.com
Join the Global Solidarity Fund mailing list to receive updates and key information. Sign up here.