Successful Applicants Announced for Highland Council’s Strategic Events Grant Fund

The Highland Council is pleased to announce the successful applicants of its Strategic Events Grant Fund, introduced following Committee approval in May as part of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) programme.

Councillor Ken Gowans, Chair of the Economy and Infrastructure Committee, said: “I’m delighted to see this fund generate such strong interest and support for our vibrant events sector. However this fund was significantly over subscribed, and this highlights the need for further support for this sector of our economy. We must look towards identifying what additional funds could be used in other years to ensure the viability and sustainability of growing our events schedule in Highland.

“These events are driven by passionate professionals and volunteers and are often the heartbeat of our communities. They play a vital role in not only extending the visitor season but also enriching local life, making the Highlands a great place to live.

“I encourage residents and visitors alike to take part, support local talent, and enjoy the rich tapestry of experiences these events provide.” 

Designed to support public-facing events that boost local economies, extend the visitor season, and enhance cultural and community life across the region, the fund was launched to gauge interest and inform future development. With a total budget of £75,000, the Council received an overwhelming 37 applications, requesting more than three times the available funding.

Following a competitive assessment process, a panel has awarded funding to 13 events that reflect the strategic aims of the programme, including economic impact, community engagement, and environmental sustainability. The successful events span the Highlands and showcase a diverse range of themes—from music and food to astronomy and Gaelic culture:

 

28 Aug 2025

This article was published
28 Aug 2025

News Archive

News RSS feed