Who can apply?
Any individual or organisation with the skills and capacity to undertake the proposed project. We may ask individuals to identify a ‘host’ organisation to manage the payment of the grant. Partnership applications are encouraged. We welcome applications from:

• Academic researchers
• Charities
• Landowners
• Woodland consultants
• Community organisations
• Private companies (we will want to see demonstrable, replicable benefits for the sector)
• Collaborations across these sectors

How can I apply?
Download and complete our application form. You’ll be asked to describe your project, explain how it will support native woodland recovery, and submit a budget.

• Download the application form
• Read our application guidance  
• Read our grant terms and conditions 

Email your completed form to: Ailsa Watson, Finance & Operations Manager

How much can I apply for? Grants up to £10,000 are available. Projects with match funding (including in-kind or volunteer contributions) are encouraged but not essential. There is no upper limit to overall project cost.

What’s the application deadline?

The next application deadline is 13 August 2025.

What kind of projects are eligible?
If your project improves understanding or creates practical solutions for native woodland recovery in Scotland, it’s likely to be eligible. We fund research, trials, monitoring, knowledge-sharing and collaborative initiatives that benefit Scotland’s native woodlands.

What don’t you fund?

We don’t fund:

• General appeals, political or religious activities
• Work without a clear benefit to Scotland’s native woodlands
• Routine running costs for organisations
• More than 50% of salary or overhead costs for existing staff
• Student study, travel or expeditions
• Major infrastructure, access works or land purchases
• Charities redistributing funds to others

What should I include in my budget?

You’ll need to include a completed Revenue and/or Capital Budget. Please explain:

• Any secured funding (source, amount, and restrictions)
• Any pending funding and expected decision dates
• How you’ll meet any shortfall

If applying for salary support, provide a job description and note if it’s a new or existing role. We may also request your most recent audited accounts or other financial documentation.

Do I need to meet any legal requirements before applying?
Yes, you’ll need to confirm that you’ve met all relevant legal, insurance and compliance obligations required to carry out the project safely and lawfully.

When will I hear back about my application?
Applications are considered twice a year — in March and September. The deadlines are clearly stated on the website but are generally February and August.  Once we receive your application, we’ll send you an acknowledgment with the date of the meeting your proposal will be reviewed. You’ll hear from us within two weeks of that meeting.

How is the funding paid?
If your application is approved, we’ll send you a written offer. Once you sign and return the contract, your project can begin. Payment is usually split: part upfront, and part on completion of the work and submission of your end of grant report. We may offer full advance payment if requested and approved.

What’s required at the end of the project?
Your End of Grant report should outline:

• The impact and outcomes of the work
• Research or evaluation results
• Any major changes to the project
• What your project achieved versus the original proposal
• A timeline and breakdown of costs
• Any photos or resources (which may be published on our website)
• Reflections on what difference the funding made

If you have any questions about our Research and Innovation grant, please contact Ailsa Watson, our Finance & Operations Manager.