Overview
Funding is available to support capital projects that strengthen culture and tourism across the Tay Cities Region. A total of £10 million is available, with grants between £750,000 and £2,000,000. Projects must secure at least 50% match funding.
What the Fund Will Support
The CTIP Challenge Fund will support projects that:
- Enhance cultural, heritage, and tourism assets
- Deliver high-quality visitor experiences
- Contribute to sustainable economic growth
- Increase visitor numbers and visitor spend
- Support job creation and local economic impact
- Strengthen the region as a place to live, work and visit
Projects should demonstrate clear regional impact and contribute to culture and tourism-led regeneration across the Tay Cities Region.
Funding Available
A total of £10 million is available through the CTIP Challenge Fund.
Applicants can apply for capital grants of:
- Minimum: £750,000
- Maximum: £2,000,000
Projects must secure at least 50% match funding from other sources. In exceptional circumstances, applicants can submit bids for more than £2,000,000. Contact cultureandtourism@taycities to discuss.
Who Can Apply
The Fund is open to organisations delivering projects within the Tay Cities Region that:
- Can demonstrate strong regional impact
- Have a project at a strong stage of development
- Can evidence match funding of at least 50%
How to Apply
At Stage 1, all applicants must first submit an Expression of Interest (EOI). To request a form please email cultureandtourism@taycities.co.uk
Projects that are successful at EOI stage will be invited to submit a business case as part of the full application process.
Key Dates
Fund opens: 22 June
Expression of Interest deadline: 17 July
Full applications: By invitation
Final decisions: Spring 2027
Guidance
Full details can be found in the EOI guidance.
Background
The Culture & Tourism Investment Programme (CTIP) Challenge Fund is part of the Tay Cities Region Deal’s £37 million investment in culture and tourism, supporting projects that enhance cultural and heritage assets, strengthen the visitor economy, and drive sustainable economic growth across the region.