2025/26 UK Shared Prosperity Fund Delivery Plan Approved – Highland Events To Benefit From New Grant Fund

Members of The Highland Council’s Economy and Infrastructure Committee have agreed a delivery plan that will see £3 million of funding from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) invested to support Highland communities, businesses, employment and tourism.

The 2025/26 Highland UKSPF Delivery Plan is made up of a range of projects geared to delivering positive impacts across the Highlands, building on the successes of the 2022-25 Delivery Plan and introducing new interventions, all aimed at maximising the return on the 2025/26 investment.

Included in the 2025/26 Delivery Plan is a new £75,000 Strategic Events Grant Fund to support the region’s vibrant events sector and stimulate the visitor economy during the quieter shoulder and off-season months.

Councillor Ken Gowans, Chair of the Economy and Infrastructure Committee, welcomed the initiative, saying: ““This fund is a fantastic opportunity to support the creativity and resilience of our communities. By investing in events that celebrate our culture, attract visitors, and extend the tourism season, we’re helping to build a stronger, more sustainable Highland economy.”

The fund, which is part of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) programme, will offer grants of between £3,000 and £10,000 to eligible events taking place between September 2025 and March 2026. It is open to a wide range of public events, including music, food and drink, cultural, sports, and nature-based festivals.

Priority will be given to events that demonstrate strategic value—such as those that drive overnight stays, promote responsible tourism, and align with national and regional strategies including Scotland the Perfect Stage 2024–2035 and The Highland Council’s Sustainable Tourism Strategy 2024–2030.

Applications will open on Monday 2 June and close on Monday 30 June 2025. Successful applicants will be notified by mid-July.