Residents across Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire and Moray are encouraged to help shape a greener, more sustainable future as public voting officially opens for Year 5 of the Scottish Government’s Just Transition Participatory Budgeting (PB) Fund.
From 12 noon on Monday October 26 through to 5pm on Monday November 9 2026, anyone living, working or accessing services in the region have the opportunity to decide how £1million of funding is invested in local, community-led environmental initiatives.
The £1million Fund will be evenly split, distributing £333,333 to each of the three regions - Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire and Moray. Crucially, the final allocation of funds is decided entirely by the public vote.
Greyhope Bay received £3,091 to deliver its Green Storage Solutions project.
Now in its fifth year, the Fund has transformed communities across the three regions by supporting projects that promote sustainability, reduce carbon emissions and strengthen community resilience. Since 2022, it has awarded £4.5million to 181 local projects - funding initiatives such as greener transport solutions, community growing spaces and energy-efficiency upgrades.
This year, a wide variety of new proposals are in the running. By voting, residents can help bring these ideas to life - ensuring funding directly reflects priorities of those who know their communities best.
Voting is open to anyone aged 5 and over who lives, works or accesses services in Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire or Moray. All that’s needed is a valid postcode from one of the three areas.
Cycling Without Age Scotland secured £28,800 over two years from the JTPB Fund to expand its cycling service across Aberdeen and Banchory.
Maggie Hepburn, Chief Executive at ACVO TSI, said: “Entering our fifth year, we continue to be inspired by the creativity and determination of local groups working toward a net zero future.
“The Just Transition PB Fund gives people a direct say - every vote helps turn local ideas into lasting community benefits. We encourage everyone to explore the projects, have their say and play a vital role in shaping a greener, fairer future.”
Alison Stuart, CEO NESCAN Hub, said: "There has been such an amazing response this year with a whole range of community groups, clubs, associations and not-for-profit organisations from across Aberdeen City and the Shire getting involved.
“For everyone who has applied for funding, it is now really important that people take the time to vote for the projects they feel will make a difference - not just to the environment, but to the people and places they care about.
“JTPB funding can make a real difference, helping turn ideas, solutions and a lot of hard work into reality. Without this support, some of these projects might never get off the ground.”
Friends of Wesfield Park received a grant of £10,400 to purchase a storage container to hold tools and equipment with a green roof.
The Fund is delivered locally on behalf of the Scottish Government by ACVO TSI, Aberdeenshire Voluntary Action (AVA), tsiMORAY, NESCAN Hub and Money for Moray.
To take part, visit www.jtpbfund.scot. Residents are encouraged to explore the project proposals and cast their votes before the deadline at 5pm on Monday 9th November 2026.