VisitScotland’s Round 57 of the National Events Programme offers financial support to public-facing events taking place in Scotland between Tuesday 1 June 2027 – Thursday 30 September 2027.

The programme aims to strengthen Scotland’s events sector by enhancing visitor experiences, increasing tourism, and supporting local economies, and is part of the broader Events Industry Development Programme, aiming to support Scotland’s events sector in line with the National Events Strategy, “Scotland The Perfect Stage 2024 – 2035”.

The programme aims to strengthen Scotland’s events sector by enhancing visitor experiences, increasing tourism, and supporting local economies. Funding awards typically range £5,000 – £25,000, with applications assessed on criteria including event scale, audience reach, and promotional plans. Eligible applicants include legally constituted organisations delivering events which align with VisitScotland’s strategic priorities, such as sustainability, community engagement, and economic impact.

Events must take place outwith the local authority areas of Edinburgh and Glasgow, and demonstrate their role in showcasing regions and driving domestic tourism around Scotland. Events can be supported a maximum of three times with National Events Programme funding.

Application Deadline and How to Apply

The deadline for applications is 2pm on Monday 5 October 2026.

Before submitting a funding application, potential applicants must submit a funding enquiry via the new EventScotland applicant portal (linked for your convenience).

A member of the EventScotland team will share further details on the application process after review of an enquiry. Once EventScotland has reviewed your enquiry and confirmed that your event is eligible to apply for funding, applicants will be sent a link and further details on how to apply online.

Outcomes will usually be shared with applicants within 40 – 50 working days from the deadline.

Further Information and Support

For full guidance and eligibility criteria (including a catch-up webinar), please visit the dedicated Events and Festivals Funding page, or refer to VisitScotland’s National Events Programme Round 57 guidance document.