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heritage of coastal and seagoing communities of place and interest, for example, a coastal or fishing village

East Ayrshire Council offers a wide range of grants to voluntary organisations. Grants are intended to provide or maintain cultural, social, welfare, recreational or sporting facilities or to promote these activities. The grants are also provided to assist community-based projects that are in the interests of local areas or the environment.

The fund provides organisations with financial help to organise events and activities for residents in their area. Depending on the criteria, funds may be awarded for:- improving the appearance of the area- attracting people into the area- positively raising the profile of the area- promoting awareness of the area- contributing to a larger scale project with a longer term goalThe criteria for each area can be found on the Council website.

The Area Committee has a small budget which can be used to 'top up' other funding sources in cases where otherwise there would be inadequate funding to allow something to happen. They will favour projects which respond to local needs and show clear evidence of community economic development and emerged from, or take cognisance of: - Community Action Plans- Settlement Plans- Town Centre First approach- The Local Community Plan: Strong Communities, Wellbeing and Connecting People- Local Place Plans- Community Empowerment Act, in support of the assembly of for example business plans or feasibility studiesPlease note that this fund is for projects taking place with the Kincardine and Mearns area only. See the website for full criteria.

The Scottish Government’s Community and Renewable Energy Scheme (CARES) is supporting community and faith organisations to install solar PV and battery storage in their buildings. This is a short-term pilot, funded by the Scottish Government and Great British Energy, with funds needing to be spent and claimed by 31 March 2026.Demand is expected to be high for this funding, with many communities already in a position to mobilise projects very quickly. Funding will be allocated on a first come first served basis. If you are developing a new project, read the guidance and self-assessment checklist carefully and prioritise seeking a quote if you think you are eligible.To be able to install within the pilot timescale, easier installation projects will be more suited to this funding. Therefore, while it is not a requirement, they suggest that the proposed project:- Is not in a conservation area or within the curtilage of a listed building.- Is under 50kW of solar PV.- Is on an easily accessible roof, which is built after 1930s (as the roof will be more likely to meet structural requirements).- Is not part of a more significant building renovation that would increase the risk of programme delays.