Parent Employability Innovation Fund 2026/27
Apply for funding
Dumfries and Galloway Local Employability Partnership (LEP) is inviting applications to the Parent Employability Innovation Fund 2026/27 Round 2. The fund supports innovative projects that help parents increase their income through employment and contribute to reducing child poverty across Dumfries and Galloway.
Funding of up to £10,000 per project is available. Projects must be delivered, and all funding spent by 31 March 2027.
Who can apply
Applications are welcome from:
- third sector organisations
- public sector organisations
- private sector organisations
- partnerships led by an eligible organisation.
What we're looking for
We're looking for innovative, evidence-based projects that:
- support parents who are unemployed, economically inactive or on low incomes
- help parents move towards employment, enter work or progress whilst in work
- address barriers to employment
- respond to local labour market demand
- complement existing services rather than duplicate them
- provide clear progression towards training, education or employment.
Projects should follow the principles of No One Left Behind, providing flexible, person-centred support that is accessible, inclusive and focused on helping parents secure and sustain fair employment.
Priority areas
Applications should consider:
- local evidence of need
- the six priority family groups identified within Scotland's child poverty strategy
- barriers to entering, sustaining and progressing in employment
- opportunities to support in-work progression
- how the proposed activity adds value to existing services.
Key dates
- applications open: Monday 7 September 2026
- deadline for questions: Monday 14 September 2026, 5pm
- application deadline: Monday 21 September 2026, midday
- panel pitch: Thursday 24 September 2026
- estimated award notifications: Wednesday 30 September 2026
How to apply
Download and read the guidance before completing an application:
Email your completed application form and supporting documents to [email protected] by midday on Monday 21 September 2026.
Questions
If you have any questions about the fund or application process, email [email protected] by 5pm on Monday 14 September 2026. Questions and responses will be managed centrally to ensure all applicants receive the same information.
Facebook: DG Local Employability and Skills Partnership