Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for funding from Bòrd na Gàidhlig?
Anyone to a certain extent, as long as they demonstrate that they are able to deliver what they propose, and as long as their project or proposal will benefit Gaelic: a benefit which is relevant to the aims and responsibilities of the Bòrd.
Some of the Bòrd’s funding schemes require that the applicant has at least a constitution and a bank account, and often there are other criteria which the group or individual must meet. However, if the Bòrd is unable to offer you funding, we are more than willing to point to other funding opportunities which may be appropriate.
Does Gaelic have to be part of the project?
It is a requirement that the project clearly benefits the development of Gaelic and its culture, and the project must either seek to increase the number of Gaelic speakers or seek to increase the opportunities to use Gaelic and the quality of those opportunities.
What is the biggest award the Bòrd can make?
There is no official limit on the sum of money the Bòrd can award, but the Bòrd receives a grant-in-aid award from the Scottish Government each year in order to meet the requirements of many groups and individuals, and as a result the money must be distributed according to priorities. In some schemes there is a fixed ceiling on the amount of money which can be awarded to an applicant.
What sort of assessment is there on the delivery of a project?
The Bòrd assesses every project and organisation that they fund.
Projects are assessed from the beginning when the application is submitted and measures are agreed which will demonstrate that the aims of the project are being met. Sometimes, with bigger projects, different stages of the project will be assessed and portions of the funding will be paid accordingly.
The main Gaelic organisations or the agreed contractors will be assessed every quarter: these organisations must submit a detailed report on the finances and work of the organisation which accord with the agreement struck between them and the Bòrd.
There are performance indicators and agreed outcomes in every funding agreement which Bòrd na Gàidhlig makes.
When will I find out if I have been successful in my funding application?
A date is usually given in specific funding schemes, and when an application is made which does not fall under one of the specific funding schemes, it will be dealt with as soon as possible, and often a date will be given for the decision.
How do I apply for funding?
Usually it is best to apply for funding under one of the Bòrd’s recognised funding schemes, and these schemes have rules on who can apply. If you require more information about the Bòrd’s schemes or other ways of receiving funding from Bòrd na Gàidhlig contact tabhartas@bng.org.uk