Two projects in Orkney have been successful in receiving dedicated islands funding from the Scottish Government.

UHI Orkney have been awarded £346,200 for Student Accommodation from The Islands Programme which is delivered in partnership with local government, in this case Orkney Islands Council.

Hoy Community has been awarded  £131,484 for a Transport Electrification Project from The Carbon Neutral Islands Fund which is delivered in partnership with local government, in this case Orkney Islands Council.

Twenty three community-led projects will benefit from funding in 2025-26 sharing in £5.9 million of finance from the Scottish Government’s Islands Programme and the Carbon Neutral Islands Programme.

Deputy First Minister in the Scottish Government Kate Forbes said:

“Our island communities are bursting with ambition, innovation and potential, and the Scottish Government is committed to supporting local priorities and long-term sustainability.

“Indeed it the underpinning objective of the Convention of the Highlands and Islands to take a collective, strategic approach to unlocking economic opportunities and tackling issues.

“I am pleased we have been able to provide substantial funding towards projects across island areas.

“They are all fine examples of how we can work together with communities and local authorities to boost island economies in ways that are sustainable and generate revenue that can be reinvested locally.”

In total there were 18 successful projects awarded funding from The Islands Programme, and 5 from The Carbon Neutral Islands Fund.

Scottish Futures Trust Senior Associate Director Neil Rutherford said:

“Since 2021, our infrastructure experts have been working in close partnership with Island local authorities and the Scottish Government to ensure the Islands Programme delivers real and lasting benefits for island communities.

“The fifth year of funding, announced today, will continue to back projects that encourage population growth, support local economies, and enhance facilities for people of all ages.

“We’re also pleased to continue our work with the Scottish Government and island partners through the Carbon Neutral Islands Capital Fund. Now in its second year, this funding is enabling innovative, community-led projects that build local resilience and demonstrate the islands’ leadership in Scotland’s journey to net zero.

“We are proud to help turn these shared ambitions into practical outcomes that contribute to vibrant, sustainable island communities.”

---