For Argyll

Argyll and Bute Council has allocated £160,000 to fund activities associated with 2009 Year of Homecoming. This will be split into £80,000 for larger events and £80,000 for smaller events. Organisations are invited to apply for these funds to promote a programme of activity in the county that will deliver additional tourism visits and revenues; engage and motivate the Scottish Diaspora; celebrate Scotland’s outstanding contributions to the world; and promote pride amongst Scots at home and abroad.

The Council indicate that activities must link into two or more of the following:

• creatively represent Argyll and Bute’s cultural past or present to the local population and visitor.
• acknowledge the history of Argyll and Bute, key milestones and events.
• enhance the area’s attractiveness for tourists through a celebration of the rich heritage of the area or its wide-ranging cultural programme.
• acknowledge the history of golf and whisky to the area.
• assist both the local community and visitors to expand knowledge of their ancestry.
• highlight the unique environment of Argyll and Bute for its residents and visitors.
• raise the profile of important cultural, heritage and religious sites in the area.
• highlight the history of emigration.
• celebrate global links throughout the world.
• reflect the history of communities in Argyll and Bute through the art of storytelling.
• is forward looking and challenges perceptions of contemporary highland life and communities.
• identify major internationally recognised creative talents and innovators associated with Argyll and Bute.

You can find full details on the Council’s website.