Inspiring Scotland is now inviting expressions of interest for the Outdoor Community Play Incubator Programme, which opens to applications on Monday 1 September 2025.

This fund supports small community groups in rural and remote areas to deliver free, child-led outdoor play which improves children’s health and wellbeing. Grants of up to £5,000 are available, which will be awarded alongside development support and capacity building.

Inspiring Scotland is keen to hear from grassroots organisations who want to build confidence, test new ideas, and help children and families connect with nature through play.

Celia Tennant, Inspiring Scotland Chief Executive, says:

“For over 15 years, we’ve championed outdoor play as a cornerstone of healthy childhoods and stronger families. Yet we know that many communities face barriers to creating safe outdoor play opportunities. This new incubator programme builds on our experience of working alongside organisations committed to improving health and wellbeing of children across Scotland and will help rural communities overcome challenges by offering funding, support and guidance to create lasting opportunities for play.”

Projects must be delivered between Wednesday 1 April 2026 – Friday 31 March 2028.

Groups and organisations who are interested in applying should read the programme criteria to find out more about the programme and check they are eligible to apply. (There is also an Easy Read version available.)

If groups think they are eligible and would like to apply, they should then complete the Expression of Interest Form.

After completing the Expression of Interest form, you will receive an email with:

a copy of the Programme Information & Guidance Notes
a Microsoft Word copy of the application form questions, to help prepare the application
a link to the online application form, through which groups submit their application

The deadline for applications is 12pm on Monday 22 September 2025.

For further information, please visit the dedicated page on the Inspiring Scotland website (linked for your convenience).