Community groups and organisations across Moray are being invited to apply as Moray Council opens the second round of its Coastal Community Fund.

This year £100,000 is available, with the remaining Crown Estate funding set aside to support longer-term strategic investment over the next five years.

Community-led projects can seek grants of £10,000 to £20,000, while strategic partnership bids may request between £20,000 and £50,000.

Eligible applicants include community groups, charities, social enterprises, development trusts, educational institutions and public sector bodies. Projects must have a clear link to Moray's coast or sea and be located within 12 nautical miles of the Moray shoreline.

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Applications close at 5pm on Friday 18 September 2026. Following assessment, eligible bids will proceed to a public vote on Moray Engage.

Last year, the fund supported a variety of initiatives, including the Adventure by the Sea Festival, accessibility improvements at Burghead beach, upgrades at the Scottish Dolphin Centre, and enhancements to community facilities in Spey Bay and Portknockie. Almost 9,000 people voted.

Chair of Moray Council's Economic Development and Infrastructure Services Committee, Cllr Marc Macrae, said: "The response to the Coastal Community Fund in its first year showed just how many ambitious ideas there are across Moray's coastal communities."

"It was also fantastic to see so many people taking part in the public vote and helping to decide which projects should receive funding – I'm pleased that we are able to offer this opportunity again and would encourage eligible groups to apply."

Further details, including eligibility criteria and how to apply, are available at: www.moray.gov.uk/benefits-and-grants/council-and-government-grants/moray-coastal-communities-fund-grant-scheme/