THE University of Glasgow is offering community groups, charities and projects up to £5000 in grants.

The funding comes from the Glasgow Riverside Innovation District (GRID) Civic Grant Fund, aimed at improving communities around the university.

Applications are now open for the first round of the fund which closes on May 22.

Up to £5000 will be given to each successful project.

An all-year-round GRID Civic Micro Grant Fund has also been initiated for smaller projects, with up to £850 available for eligible applicants.

Both funds are aimed at supporting local groups to make positive impact for those living, working and learning within the innovation district comprising G3, G11, G12 and G51 postcodes.

The funding support is available for many different projects, for example, equality initiatives or health programmes. Applicants must show their project aligns with one of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.

Uzma Khan, vice-principal for Economic Development and Innovation and deputy chief operating officer at the University of Glasgow, said: "We are delighted to launch our GRID Civic Fund and call on local communities within the district to take advantage of the new grant scheme.

"We understand there are times when community groups need access to short-term cash to support or continue their important work.

“Supporting communities and demonstrating the university’s civic purpose is one of the priorities for GRID – our vision firmly believes the benefits of growth and innovation that can be generated by universities like ours sit hand-in-hand with our mission to change lives for the better."

GRID is a civic and economic partnership between the university, Glasgow City Council and Scottish Enterprise.

For more information on the funds and application details, go to gla.ac.uk/connect/gridcivicgrantfunds/.