Year 2 of the Just Transition Participatory Budgeting (JTPB) Fund is in full swing, and grassroots community groups in Aberdeen have one last chance to submit their applications with the deadline extended until 12noon on Monday, September 11th.

This extension provides a valuable opportunity for grassroots organisations to secure funding for their green community initiatives in Aberdeen City.

The JTPB Fund is part of the Scottish Government’s ambitious £500 million ten-year Just Transition Fund, designed to bolster Scotland’s Northeast economy in its journey towards net-zero. In 2022, £1 million was allocated to groups in Aberdeen city, Aberdeenshire, and Moray, allowing the public to decide which green community projects deserved funding and best reflected local needs throught he process of a public vote.

The process saw several local groups such as Aberdeen Science Centre, Somebody Cares, Friends of Westfield Park and Greyhope Bay receive support in Aberdeen, setting the stage for another round of funding in 2023.

Managed collaboratively by the North East’s three Third Sector Interfaces – ACVO, Aberdeenshire Voluntary Action, and TSiMoray, along with the Northeast Scotland’s Climate Action Network (NESCAN Hub) and Money for Moray – Year 2 of JTPB Fund has earmarked £1.5 million for environmentally-friendly green projects. Each of these areas has £500,000 for third sector groups to make a difference in their local communities with applications sought from organisations such as charities, community groups, community councils, community interest companies and more.

This year, grassroots community organisations have the opportunity to apply for up to £50,000 in capital funding for projects dedicated to addressing climate change, reaching net-zero and improving sustainability. These tangible assets can encompass a variety of initiatives, with previous recipients having used the fund for purchasing electric vehicles, charging points, solar-powered mowers, insulation, reusable equipment, and solar lighting power banks.

A public vote will go live on September 29th with local residents invited to have their say on which projects they think should receive funding.

The Just Transition concept revolves around achieving a fairer, greener future while addressing inequality and injustice throughout the transition to net zero. The funds allocated to the North East play a pivotal role in driving a Just Transition to Net-Zero for Scotland by involving more people in decisions impacting their communities and the environment.

Examples of Project Categories Eligible for Funding:

* Energy: Transitioning to energy-efficient solutions, such as LED lighting, alternative heating sources, or energy-saving equipment like solar panels.

* Job/Training/Education: equipment/products that could be used in communities to make jobs/community activity greener (replacement of petrol lawnmowers or less carbon intensive equipment for community sheds) or such that could be used to promote the reduction of carbon footprints whilst educating on climate change.

* Food: Funding community garden initiatives, equipment, and infrastructure to reduce food waste and promote sustainable practices.

* Local Economies: Encouraging asset sharing, upcycling, reusing, repairing, and recycling through equipment and product investments.

* Transport/Travel: Promoting climate-friendly transportation, including electric vehicles and charging infrastructure. Encouraging sustainable travel options like walking, cycling, and accessibility enhancements.

* Built Environment: Retrofitting buildings for energy efficiency and repurposing land and structures to adapt to climate change.

* Natural Environment: Supporting equipment and developments that enhance or create green spaces, plant trees, place nests, and encourage native wildlife reintroduction.

* Inequalities: Addressing inequalities arising from transitioning to less carbon-intensive activity, including affordable green products, access to natural landscapes, and wellbeing-focused activities.

This extension provides a fantastic opportunity for community groups in Aberdeen to secure funding for their green projects and make a difference in the city. Don’t miss the chance to make a meaningful impact on your community and the environment.

For more information and to submit your application, visit https://www.jtpbfund.scot/apply