Community Connect is a funding initiative which enables Scotmid members to give back to their Communities. Applications are now open. Funding will be awarded in October 2024. If you want to be kept updated on funding opportunities please email membership@scotmid.co.uk
Community Connect is simple: Three Good Cause Groups from three Member Regions (North, East and West) will receive a financial award of up to £15,000 following a vote by Scotmid members in the relevant area.
Scotmid members collect one Community Connect vote every time they shop in store. They then use their votes to determine the size of the award that each Good Cause Group receives.
To help members make their decision the three Good Cause Groups attend Scotmid’s Member Meeting and present their funding idea to members. Members are also able to cast their votes in store for their favourite group. The group with the most votes receives £15,000 and the two runner-ups are awarded £5,000. Applications will close at 5pm on Thursday 7th March 2024.
Which Community Groups can apply?
All Good Cause Groups – whether you’re a registered charity or not, who have a project or initiative that benefits Communities close to a Scotmid store are welcome to apply. Please read the terms and conditions before applying to make sure your group and project meet the criteria.
Applicants must be:
- An established Good Cause Group or Charity or part of a new group who have an idea which will enhance your local community
We’re looking for applications that:
- Benefit the local community centred around Scotmid or Semichem stores
- Have a big benefit to their community
- Are scheduled to be completed within 24 months of the award date
- Cost in the region of £15,000
The full terms and conditions for Groups thinking of applying can be found by clicking here.
How do Community Groups apply?
Applications are now open. Complete the application form here to apply. Applications will close at 5pm on Thursday 7th March 2024. The Funding will then be awarded in October 2024.
Community Connect has two award cycles every year. Groups are chosen each April and September and we will let you know if you have been successful. Groups shortlisted in April will receive funding in September / October of that year. Groups shortlisted in September will receive funding in May of the following year. If you want to be sent a reminder when applications open, please email membership@scotmid.co.uk with your contact details.
You can find out about previous winners here as well as the current shortlisted groups and their projects here.
Who decides which groups get awarded?
Three Good Cause Groups will be shortlisted by a panel of Scotmid representatives from all the applications received. Scotmid members use their Membership Card – Community Connect Card – to collect 1 vote every time they shop. Members then allocate their votes to one of the three shortlisted groups. The final amount awarded to each shortlisted groups is dependent on which group receives the most member votes.
What are my responsibilities if I am shortlisted?
The full list of responsibilities can be found in our Terms and Conditions.
Where can I get more information?
You can also contact the Community & Membership team on: membership@scotmid.co.uk or call us on 0131 335 4433
Frequently Asked Questions:
Who decides on the shortlist?
Three Scotmid members and three Scotmid employees will make the decision.
Do I have to be a member of Scotmid to apply for Community Connect?
No, however only members can collect and vote for the shortlisted groups.
When will I find out if my application has been shortlisted?
To download a copy of Community Connect Good Cause Group Terms and Conditions please click here
If you would like to hear the latest news on funding available from Scotmid, please email membership@scotmid.co.uk