Gain insights on navigating our grants programme and learn how Future Woodlands Scotland supports research and innovation.

1.        What kinds of conservation projects is the charity currently supporting? 

We deliberately have broad criteria as we don’t want to assume that we know where innovation might arise! We’re open, we’re curious and we hope that the range of what we’ve funded evidences that. Our grantees have included filmmakers, researchers studying acoustic phenomena, a community woodland initiative and a project focused on montane scrub restoration in Scotland. You can read all about our funded projects here.

2.        What makes a grant application successful?

We assess an application against how well it aligns with our eligibility criteria and in meeting our commitment as a woodland conservation charity. We love seeing thoughtful, original ideas and appreciate applicants who collaborate with others or show awareness of the existing work in their field. Our evaluation focuses on the potential impact and the spark of innovation that a proposed project brings. 

3.        How fast is the decision-making process?

Typically, our Trustees make decisions within three weeks of the deadline. Once the decision is made, we send out notifications and a grant agreement. We make the first payment within a week of receiving the signed agreement, so that you can get started on your important work as soon as possible.

4.        Does Future Woodlands Scotland only support projects in Scotland?

Since the launch of our Research and Innovations Grant programme in 2016, we have actively supported projects aimed at making a positive impact on Scotland’s native woods. While our heart is in Scotland, we’ve actually funded projects all across the UK. We’ve kept things flexible, emphasising that projects anywhere can receive support, as long as they bring tangible, or replicable, benefits to the woodlands of Scotland.

5.        Is there a limit to how much funding is available?

Currently, our maximum grant is £10,000 and most of our grants fall within the £5,000-£10,000 range. This means we can allocate resources sensibly across projects with varying needs and scopes. Over seven years, we have contributed to initiatives worth a total of £706,000. Almost half of our support has been awarded in the last two years alone.

6.        How can potential grantees contact you if they have more questions? Whether you’re an ecologist, wildlife enthusiast or researcher in any related field, we want to hear from you. With 15 years of experience writing varied funding applications, I’m keen to keep the process clear and simple. You can email me at [email protected] – I won’t assume to predict trustee decisions, but I’m more than happy to offer practical feedback and guidance.

Applications are open until 5pm on 29 February 2024. Apply today