How to Apply

 Click to download the Application form

Background
The Trust is an endowment trust which was established by the international philanthropist Andrew Carnegie in 1903 to add value to the lives and environment of the community of Dunfermline, Fife, where he was born and passed his childhood. The Trust is one of 22 Carnegie foundations worldwide and is governed by Royal Charter with a Board of twenty Trustees.

Where funding can be given
The geographic area of the Trust is defined as 'Dunfermline and its environs', as determined by the Trustees. Applicants must be based in or intending to use the funds for the benefit of this area.

What is likely to be funded
Projects, activities and schemes with social, community, educational, cultural, sport and recreational purposes for the benefit of those within the defined geographic area of the operation of the Trust. This can include community facilities and services, voluntary sector activities, clubs and societies and environmental and infrastructure development. Proposals that are innovative and far reaching together with those that particularly impact on young people are looked for with interest together with active partnerships. Pump priming and start up funding is offered on a one off basis.

What is not likely to be funded
Individuals; closed groups (with the exception of those catering for specialist needs); political, military or sectarian bodies; activities outwith the geographic scope of the Trust; medical organisations; routine running or salary costs; costs which are the responsibility of a government body.

Type of funding
Principally single grants with occasional loans and capital funding. Typical grant between £300 and £10,000. The Trust has moved away from providing annual recurrent funding for events, schools, clubs and societies but welcomes applications which will open up opportunities and add value as widely as possible. Where possible a co-ordinated and holistic approach is encouraged. Questions such as "How does this application fit in with longer term plans?" and "Is it part of a bigger or phased project?", should be considered.

Application process
Trustees meet every two months and applications can be submitted at any time. Application forms are available and initial discussion with the Chief Executive or Administrator is encouraged. Where possible applications will be acknowledged and further information may be sought. Once all the necessary background is available the application will be considered by the appropriate assessing trustee in the first instance who will decide if a grant under delegated powers is applicable, if it should go to the Board, or if it is not suitable to progress. When a grant is awarded the recipient will be notified in writing with any related terms and conditions which will include the take up of the grant within a twelve month period.

Other information
The Trust welcomes acknowledgement of funding in publicity as appropriate and appreciates access to photographs and other material for its own publications.