Scottish Golf launches expanded support package

Scottish Golf has introduced two new funding opportunities for golf clubs, taking the total number available to five. 

As of today, all 569 affiliated golf clubs in Scotland can apply for support in five key areas. They are marketing, sustainability, governance, member retention and staff education.  

Clubs have until 14 April 2023 to apply for funding.  Last year, Scottish Golf say that 161 clubs were awarded grants totalling £102,000 in the three funds that were available.

Those three funds will be joined by a further two for 2023. Here’s a breakdown of the opportunities that are available.

Sustainable Golf Acceleration Fund 

Launched in partnership with the GEO Foundation for Sustainable Golf, this new fund will give successful applicants access to workshops and extra support services to help their club be more sustainable in a cost-effective manner.  

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Club Development Consultancy Fund  

Also new for 2023, clubs can apply to be involved in webinars run by Club Development Consultancy, a social enterprise who specialise in supporting sports clubs to change legal status. These sessions are designed to help clubs consider the current landscape, legislation and options available to them when it comes to legal structures. 

Players 1st Survey Fund 

Clubs may apply for a free 12-month subscription from Players 1st, worth £500, to carry out a comprehensive membership survey designed to help with member satisfaction and retention. This is designed to help clubs understand what is important to their members, and was used by clubs last year to get a greater insight into their membership.

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Marketing Fund 

Scottish clubs will once again be able to apply for Scottish Golf’s Marketing Fund, which gives clubs access to expert advice. That comes from Scotland-based company platform77, who worked with 50 clubs in 2022 to develop marketing and sales plans to effectively engage with visitor golfers. The 2023 fund will help clubs identify where they can improve their marketing. 

Club Education Fund 

This fund allows clubs to apply for up to £300 in grants to train staff through courses to help them perform better in their roles. This is aimed at professionals at the club, such as greenkeepers, administration teams or catering staff. 

For further details on Scottish Golf’s range of funding and resources for 2023, click here.

Lewis Fraser As bunkered’s Performance Editor, Lewis oversees the content that’s designed to make you a better player. From the latest gear to tuition, nutrition, strategy and more, he’s the man. A graduate of the University of Stirling, Lewis joined bunkered in 2021. Formerly a caddie at Castle Stuart Golf Links, he is a member of Bathgate Golf Club where he plays off four.

Performance Editor