Future Routes Fund for Nature 2026 - Young People Needed to Join Judging Panel

The Future Routes for Nature Fund – a fund for young people by young people is now open for applications. NatureScot – Scotland’s Nature Agency would like to offer young people on your panel, or whom you work, with an opportunity to be key contributors to the decision-making process of this year’s fund.

The fund aims to help young people increase their knowledge and understanding of Scottish biodiversity, provide more opportunities for them to connect with nature, and take action for the climate.

They’re looking for young people to join the judging panel to help assess the applications and decide which projects are granted funding. They will be fully supported by NatureScot, so no experience of grants is needed.

Why get involved?

• Have a say in the funding opportunities for young people in Scotland.
• Help empower and equip young people to take action for biodiversity and climate.
• Meet other young people involved in nature and youth projects.
• Use their own experience to benefits other young people in Scotland.
• Develop the following skills: Clear and effective communication, decision making, team working, analysing information, articulating feedback, reflecting on their own experience and many others.
• Influence how NatureScot provide funding and help us make it more accessible to all.
• Any costs incurred will be covered by NatureScot.
• They will receive a certificate for participation and guidance on how this experience can be reflected in their applications and resumes.

While the location of workshop is still to be confirmed, NatureScot hope to host near a nature area and incorporate a nature tour as part of the day.

What we need from them?

• Time commitment: 1-hour online training session on grant assessments (evening of w/c 10th June); 2-3 hours between 24th June and 4th July to read over applications (total time will depend on number of applications received); and 3-hour in-person workshop on 4th July to assess the applications as a panel.
• An interest in making nature accessible to all young people.

This opportunity is open to 11–26-year-olds from anywhere in Scotland. If they are under 16 they will be asked to provide parental consent.

Please email by 5th June with any questions you may have as well as telling us who your nominated young person is. You will then be sent a registration form and information on the full process involved for the young person.b

NatureScot want to make this process as accessible as possible so please let them know of any specific support your young person may need to participate.