Grow Wild Youth Grants Now Open
Remember when our woodland made international headlines?
In October 2024, The Herald Scotland reported that a rare “zombie spider fungus” had been discovered right here in Glenan Wood — and suddenly our quiet corner of Argyll was being talked about around the world. The story drew comparisons to the hit TV series The Last of Us, where a fictional fungus changes the fate of humanity.
While there’s no need to panic (mycelia is cool, not catastrophic!), the discovery sparked something positive & powerful that went global: curiosity, awe & wonder.
We reckon that’s exactly what Grow Wild Youth Grants are all about.
Got an Idea? Let It Grow.
This could be:
- A short film or digital storytelling project
- Street art or eco-art installation
- A fungi foray and photography exhibition
- A podcast, zine, or social media campaign
- A live event in the woods
- Something completely new
Your project must engage at least 100 people (in person or online), and the funding can cover equipment, materials, training, or expert support.
Projects begin in May 2026 and must finish by October 2026.
Keeping it Real…
The viral spider fungus story reinforces a couple of things i think we can say is true:
Nature is incredible.
Stories travel fast.
What story could you tell?
This is your chance to turn creativity into action — to help others see that fungi and native plants aren’t just background scenery. They’re mysterious, beautiful, strange, and essential.
Key Dates
- Application deadline: 18 March 2026 (15:00)
You need to submit a 2 minute video about your idea.
You’ll need support from a school, youth group, university, or community organisation to apply. We can be that support!
Ready to grow something wild?
Get in touch with us by emailing rhyddian@glenanwood.org.uk and we can explore your idea together.
[With thanks to John Skarp for original photo used for featured image, Ben Mitchell for original find; & the comms team at ACT for original press release]
