Crofting

Creating opportunities in rural communities

Crofting is a form of land tenure, unique to the Highlands and Islands of Scotland, which forms a vital part of our regional economy.

As well as the strong links from agriculture to other key sectors in the rural economy, most notably tourism, food and drink, crofters often play a central role in managing assets for the benefit of the whole community. Our role is to unlock the potential of rural communities and help create a strong, diverse and sustainable economy where quality of life is matched by quality of opportunity.

We work with partners who support individual crofters and crofting activity. They include the Crofting Commission, Scottish Government (in particular the Rural Payments and Inspections Directorate), Business Gateway, Registers of Scotland and Scottish Natural Heritage.

For crofting communities developing community energy plans, partners include the Scottish Government, Scottish Investment Bank (REIF), Local Energy Scotland (CARES) and Community Energy Scotland.

The administration of crofting grants for individual crofters will be delivered directly by the Scottish Government through the SRDP including the Croft House Grant.