Year 4 of Just Transition PB Fund Launches with £1million Available for Green Community Projects

As of 4th August 2025, the Just Transition Participatory Budgeting (PB) Fund returns for its fourth year, offering £1million in funding to support local community led projects that help deliver a greener future for the North East and Moray.

Since its launch in 2022, the Scottish Government Fund has awarded £3.5 million to 144 projects across Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire and Moray, enabling a wide range of sustainable initiatives that are already delivering real impact within communities.

Once again, grants of up to £50,000 are available to support capital projects that align with the Just Transition mission, providing a unique opportunity for communities to propose projects that address local needs while contributing to a greener, more eco-friendly region.

The £1million pot is evenly split across the three local authority areas, with £333,333 available to support initiatives in each.

As with previous years, the Fund continues its aim to engage communities by letting residents decide which projects receive funding via a public vote which will take place later this year, a process, which in Years 1 to 3, saw tens of thousands of local people take part and have their say.

The Fund is delivered locally on behalf of the Scottish Government by ACVO TSI, Aberdeenshire Voluntary Action, tsiMORAY, NESCAN Hub and Money for Moray who work closely with local groups to provide support with idea development, applications and engagement in the public vote.

Maggie Hepburn, Chief Executive of ACVO TSI, said: “As we enter the fourth year of the Just Transition PB Fund, it’s inspiring to reflect on the cumulative impact this funding is having in supporting local groups to take action and deliver change in their communities.

“Over the past three years, we’ve seen incredible innovation, creativity and dedication from groups committed to building a greener future and I encourage anyone with an idea, no matter how big or small, to apply. We’re proud to support this process again and look forward to see what emerges in this new round.”

Dan Shaw, Chief Executive Officer of Aberdeenshire Voluntary Action, said: “We have witnessed firsthand the transformative impact this fund has had on communities across Aberdeenshire. Now, more than ever, funding is critical in supporting organisations as they work towards building a sustainable future.

“We are proud to once again partner in delivering this initiative, ensuring organisations across Aberdeenshire have access to the financial support they need. We strongly encourage eligible organisations to apply and contribute to shaping a greener, more resilient future through collective action.”

Jackie Maclaren, Chief Officer of tsiMORAY, said: “The Just Transition Participatory Budgeting Fund is also very much about encouraging a fair and equitable shift towards a sustainable economy. These community-driven projects, not only address the practical aspects of sustainability, but also are about practices that strengthen communities through fairness, inclusivity, and people having a voice. The social and economic well-being must go hand in hand, and this Fund supports exactly this.

“Together with our partners Money for Moray, we are pleased to also announce that £33,000 of our funding will be allocated once again, for young people in Moray to decide on youth-led projects. It is one way to make sure the future is shaped by those that will inherit it.”

Alison Stuart, CEO of NESCAN Hub, said: “Now in its fourth year, the Just Transition Participatory Budgeting Fund continues to expand opportunities for local community groups and charities to access funding for climate-friendly capital projects.

“This round also highlights the growing impact of the fund, with additional work now being facilitated across both the City and Aberdeenshire, supporting a just and inclusive transition to a low-carbon future.

“NESCAN Hub is keen to hear from community groups to discuss ideas for this latest round of funding. Together, we can continue building a greener, healthier, and more sustainable North East for all.”

Last year, 45 projects were funded across the region, demonstrating the diversity, creativity and commitment of local organisations.

Some of the organisations funded in Year 3 include The Bread Maker in Aberdeen, which received £49,488 to install energy efficient ovens, cutting emissions and supporting adults with learning disabilities through new training opportunities.

Elsewhere, Strichen Community Park in Aberdeenshire, was awarded £41,044.56 to improve the accessibility of narrow footpaths, making the area safer and more inclusive while Keirans Legacy in Moray, secured £50,000 to purchase an energy efficient vehicle for delivering defibrillators to remote communities, enhancing rural healthcare access.

Applications for Year 4 funding are now open and will close at 12 noon on Monday 29th September 2025. Community groups and charities across the region are encouraged to find out more and apply online at www.jtpbfund.scot