Third Sector Interface - August Updates
Third Sector Interface August News
Midlothian
Events
The SURF Awards
- Applications close on Monday 7th September
Winners of the 2026 Awards will be announced by a leading Scottish Government Minister at a celebratory dinner event on the 10th December
The SURF Awards are delivered each year by SURF, a regeneration forum with over 300 cross-sector member organisations across Scotland, in partnership with the Scottish Government. The purpose is to highlight, celebrate and share the achievements of initiatives that address physical, social and economic challenges in communities across Scotland.
Find out more here: 2026 SURF Awards open for applications - SURF
Funding
Neighbourhood Ecosystem Fund
Supports community groups in Scotland develop local ecosystem restoration projects. This Fund focuses on the development stages of undertaking ecosystem restoration (the design, planning and preparation for ecosystem restoration). Funding is available for the early stages of ecosystem restoration, including project design, planning, and preparation.
Find out more here: How to apply to the Neighbourhood Ecosystem Fund – Inspiring Scotland
View more funding opportunities in Midlothian: Funding - Midlothian Community Action (MCA)
East Lothian
Events
Making Volunteering Count: Demonstrating the Value of Volunteering
Join Volunteer Scotland for a free online session exploring how to measure and communicate the impact of volunteering more effectively. The workshop will cover practical ways to use data and storytelling to strengthen funding applications, influence stakeholders and showcase the value of volunteer programmes.
1 September 2026, 10:00am – 11:30am
Find out more and book your place: Making volunteering count: demonstrating the value of volunteering - Volunteer Scotland
View funding opportunities in East Lothian: Funding - Volunteer Centre East Lothian
Edinburgh
Funding
Youth Jobs Grant
The Scheme is designed to support employers to recruit young people, addressing high levels of youth unemployment
Closing date: 31st of October 2026
Find out more here: Youth Jobs Grant - GOV.UK
View funding opportunities in Edinburgh: Business Funding Opportunities | Joined Up for Business
Fife
Events
Fife Employability Forum
The Fife Employability Forum is held quarterly and brings together staff and managers involved in employability services from all sectors - aiming to help organisations to work together to improve employment outcomes for people in Fife.
Reserve your spot here: News: Fife Employability Forum
Funding
Community Energy Growth Fund from Local Energy Scotland
Eligible Scottish community organisations can access support to develop, build, and own renewable energy generation projects.
Find out more here: News: Community Energy Growth Fund from Local Energy Scotland
View more funding opportunities in Fife: Funding and Finance
West Lothian
Funding
Henry Smith Foundation Holiday Grants Programme
The Henry Smith Foundation is offering grants of £500–£3,000 to help disadvantaged children enjoy day trips and short breaks. Apply now to support memorable recreational experiences for children aged 13 and under.
Closing date: Thursday 19th November 2026
Find out more here: Henry Smith Foundation Holiday Grants Programme Opens for Applications - Voluntary Sector Gateway West Lothian
View more funding opportunities in West Lothian: Funding - Voluntary Sector Gateway West Lothian
Scottish Borders
Events
Evaluation – Understanding the Basics (Session 1)
Wednesday 23rd September 2026 | 1pm - 4:30pm
Find out more here: Evalutation - Understanding the Basics
Funding
Communities Mental Health and Wellbeing Fund
The Fund has a strong focus on prevention and early intervention and aims to support grassroots community groups in tackling mental health inequalities and addressing priority issues of social isolation, loneliness, suicide prevention and tackling poverty and inequality.
Find out more here: Communities Mental Health and Wellbeing Fund 2026/2027 | Borders Community Action
View more funding opportunities in Scottish Borders: Funding Opportunities & Support | Borders Community Action