A total of £740k will be made available to support the delivery of free community-based arts activities for children and young people living in Scotland thanks to a funding partnership between YouthLink Scotland, Creative Scotland and Scottish Government.
A new round of the Youth Arts Open Fund has launched today, with £740,000 available to support children and young people who are living in poverty or face significant barriers to accessing the arts.
The fund enables freelance artists (up to £8,000) and organisations (up to £15,000) to deliver up to 12 months of high-quality, free, community-based arts activities for children and young people across Scotland. Administered by YouthLink Scotland, the fund is part of Creative Scotland’s wider support for children and young people and is funded by the Scottish Government.
Projects must prioritise children and young people who have traditionally found it hardest to access opportunities in the arts. Music-focused projects are not eligible under this fund, as music is supported through the Youth Music Initiative, but music can be included as part of a broader arts-based proposal.
Applications close at 5pm on Monday 25 August 2025.
The funding will support young people to engage in self-expression, develop their creativity, enhance their mental health and wellbeing, and build confidence and life skills.
Commenting, Jane Dailly, National Grants Manager for YouthLink Scotland, said:
“This fund is about opening doors. Access to creativity is a right, not a privilege, and we know that engaging in the arts can be truly life-changing for young people. With this investment from the Scottish Government, we’re ensuring that young people, regardless of their background, can take part in powerful, transformative arts experiences that support their wellbeing and aspirations.”
Colin Bradie, Head of Creative Learning & Young People at Creative Scotland, added:
“We are delighted to launch Round 3 of the Youth Arts Open Fund, delivered in collaboration with YouthLink Scotland and funded through the Youth Music Initiative from the Scottish Government. The fund supports high-quality, youth-led creative activity for children and young people across Scotland, particularly those facing barriers to participation.
A key strength of the fund is the meaningful role children and young people play in shaping it – ensuring they are not only involved but have real influence over decisions. This approach gives them a genuine say in the creative opportunities available to them.
We look forward to supporting another exciting round of high-quality arts and creative projects that put children and young people at the centre, with a strong focus on addressing inequity.”
Applications will be assessed by a panel of expert reviewers and final award decisions will be made by a panel of young people, who will prioritise projects that are youth-led and accessible. Applicants can find full details, including eligibility and criteria here.
Online support sessions for potential applicants are being held on:
To book a place, please contact Jane Dailly at jdailly@youthlink.scot.