University Announces Opening of £30k Community Fund

The University of St Andrews has announced the opening of the first round of applications for its Community Fund to support projects across Fife. The University Community Fund seeks to engage with innovative ideas, respond to local needs, celebrate local heritage, and offer financial support to benefit the broader community. With the Community Fund now entering its fifth year, £280,000 has been awarded to around 180 projects, This year, £30,000 will be made available, and the Fund is open to further donations which can be made online.

Organisations and groups from across Fife are all eligible, with the Fund accepting applications for grants of between £250 and £3,000. There will be two rounds of applications, which will be assessed by a formal panel made up of University staff.

The Fund was launched in early 2020 to recognise the role that grassroot organisations and projects play in local society. It was designed to increase engagement between the University and the wider community. In the past, the Fund has accepted a diverse range of projects. Successful projects include the ‘Fruit Tree Initiative’ by People Learning About Nature in Tayport (PLANT), the ‘Beach Walker’ accessibility project proposed by Largo Communities Together; and the establishment of Quinn’s Boxing Club in Springfield, which supports young people with social and behavioural difficulties.

Kieran Quinn, the head coach of the boxing club, said: “With this grant, the Club was able to purchase much-needed new boxing gloves and head guards, ensuring that members have access to safe and high-quality equipment.” Lately, the Fund has particularly encouraged local groups and organisations promoting environmental sustainability, with the ‘Fife Coastal Path Safety Markers Project’ proposed by the East Neuk Community Emergency Planning Team receiving a £3,000 grant.

Lesley Caldwell, Head of Community Engagement and Social Responsibility at the University of St Andrews, stated: “We are incredibly proud to be entering the fifth year of the University Community Fund.”

“The Fund is a reflection of the University’s commitment to the communities in which we live and work, and we look forward to continuing to build strong partnerships with local organisations.”

Image by University of St Andrews