Frequently Asked Questions
Q Does the idea have to be about improving public services?
A Yes, that is what the programme is all about.
Q What is the application process?
A Stage 1: Send us your ideas and we will then examine your ideas to see how well they fit with the criteria for the Fund. By the end of October we will have made a decision about which ideas should be funded. We will acknowledge and provide feedback to all the applicants.
Stage 2: We will invite those people who are successful to send us more details of their plans. We will examine these details and decide on appropriate levels of funding.
The two stage process will allow us to check how well your idea fits with the projects main aims, and allows us to give you feedback before you send a more detailed application.
Q If my idea is not successful at Stage 1 can I get a chance to change it?
A If you have a good idea but do not tell us enough about it in your application then we will contact you to give us more information.
Q How much money is available?
A There is a total half a million pounds available to develop good ideas.
Q How will this be divided between the good ideas?
A The money will be divided between a selection of small, medium and large project ideas. We cannot say yet how much each project will get until we examine all the applications.
Q How can the money be spent?
A Again this will depend on the types of ideas that we receive. For example, the funding could be used for training, travel, volunteer expenses, equipment, rental costs and material costs.
Q Who can apply?
A Individual and groups of young people (between 12 and 25) living in Scotland.
Q Can organised groups apply?
A We want the young people themselves to tell us about their ideas though clubs, societies and organisations (eg youth clubs, charities) can help young people to make an application.
Q Can I get more help if I need it?
A Yes. We cannot write your application for you but we will be able to help you if you contact us.
If you want more help then contact the Programme Manager at the Scottish Executive.
Q If I have more than one idea can I make more than one application?
A Yes.
Q If I am unsuccessful will you let me know?
A We anticipate that this fund will be over subscribed, and we will not be able to fund all the applications we receive. We will let you know by the end of October if your idea has been successful.
Q Who will judge the ideas?
A We will have a panel of people who will consider all the ideas that we receive. This panel will be made up of young people, people from the Scottish Executive, and others that have an interest in technology, young people and public services.
Q If my idea is good then will I be involved in carrying it out?
A Yes. It is essential that young people are involved in planning and carrying out projects.
Q Will I get help with this?
A Yes. We will do all we can to help develop your idea.
Q What types of ideas can be funded?
A Use this link to see some examples of what can be done.