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Monday 23 Jun 2025

Scotland’s Railway to help fund inspiring community projects

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Scotland’s Railway: Scotland

Scotland's Railway is launching a £40,000 community fund to help support the development and delivery of inspiring local projects across Scotland.  

The new initiative reflects Network Rail’s commitment to building stronger, more resilient communities beyond transport infrastructure by investing in the people and places the railway connects. The fund is designed to help local groups bring their ideas to life, particularly those that might otherwise struggle to secure financial backing. 

The community fund will prioritise projects that focus on boosting the local economy, promoting equal opportunities and enhancing wellbeing.  

Grants of up to £3,000 will be available to support a wide range of initiatives, from community garden schemes and youth mentoring programmes to accessibility improvements and local heritage projects. 

The fund was officially launched on Friday 20 June 2025 with an event at Keir Hardie Memorial Primary School in Motherwell, which has previously received funding through its partnership with Network Rail. The money was used to provide a range of safe outdoor spaces for learning and play, used daily by pupils throughout the school year. 

Liam Sumpter, managing director of Network Rail Scotland said: “Connecting people is about more than building the right infrastructure. Our dedicated community teams get right into the heart of communities, finding out what matters to local people, and helping to deliver positive change.  

“This new fund empowers local groups to address their specific needs that might otherwise go unfunded. Whether it’s refreshing community spaces, supporting young people, or launching environmental initiatives, we look forward to playing a part in their success.” 

The fund will be managed and awarded through Foundation Scotland.  

Helen Wray, head of philanthropy and quality at Foundation Scotland, added: “We are delighted to be supporting Network Rail with the delivery of their new Rail Community Fund. This partnership will help channel small grants to communities across Scotland, enabling local groups to deliver meaningful projects that strengthen community connections and bring positive change.” 

The community fund is part of Network Rail’s wider social value strategy, which includes volunteering, school partnerships and safety programmes.  

It’s being supported by partners including Story Contracting Ltd, AmcoGiffen, QTS, Siemen, VolkerRail, Taziker, Rail Systems Alliance and SPL Powerlines. 

The first application cycle opens on 28 July 2025 with awards announced in early November. 

Community groups interested in applying should visit Foundation Scotland's website.