Place Based Investment Programme (PBIP) 2025–2026

Empowering Communities Across East Ayrshire

The Place Based Investment Programme (PBIP) is a Scottish Government capital fund delivered in partnership with East Ayrshire Council. It supports community led projects that are rooted in local Community Action Plans, Place Plans, and other forms of community engagement and regeneration. For details of all eligible criteria please see the Guidance for Application.

Funding 2025 to 2026 (Year five)

As PBIP enters it's fifth and final year, the programme continues to reflect the strength and creativity of East Ayrshire's communities. The allocated amount for 2025/26 is:

• Tranche One Allocation: £620,136
• Potential Tranche Two Allocation: £171,864 (to be confirmed)

The high demand for funding is a testament to the programme's success, with community groups taking the lead in shaping and delivering projects that matter most to them. Access to funding and expert support has empowered local people to bring their visions to life and you can read more within the Cabinet report: Place Based Investment Programme 2025 to 2026.

"Share the Love" Continues

With limited funds and demand for projects outstripping supply, a standout feature of PBIP has been the generosity and collaboration among community groups. Some have even returned underspent funds to allow other projects to thrive - a spirit we proudly continue under the theme "Share the Love" in year five.

Due to the reduction of funding and high demand, the PBIP maximum request is limited to £100,000 unless there are exceptional circumstances that must be fully justified with significant match-funding. The Community Investment and Funding confirms other external funds that could be available to your group.

Community Scoring Panel - Vacancy

Would you like to be part of the Community Scoring Panel? The Community Scoring Panel are the Community representatives that will be responsible for scoring the submitted PBIP Applications against specific criteria. If you are submitting a PBIP application, this does not stop you from becoming a community scoring panel representative.

Please note that successful Community Representatives may be required for 2 full days, the dates provisionally identified are between 1 - 12 September 2025 (excluding Saturday and Sunday).

If you are interested please complete this survey by midnight Sunday 3 August 2025 and you will be invited along to a webinar detailing what is involved.

Information events

Before applying, we recommend reviewing the following resources:

• PBIP Guidance for Application - will assist you with completing the application form.
• PBIP FAQs - frequently asked questions and useful information.
• PBIP Brochure (PDF 17.39 MB) - featuring previous projects which would not have happened without the passion, skill and dedication of East Ayrshire citizens. If you see a project similar to your idea, reach out - they are happy to help!
• Webinars - these will be running during the open application period. Pick your date here.
• Eat, Shop, Love Local webpage - see photos and highlights from the 2024 Love Local Conference.