1. We are applying for funding to support a trip to New York to participate in the Annual New York Tartan Day Parade. All 34 band members, with 6 supporting adults, will be given the opportunity to participate in this project. The funding is to support the travel, accommodation, meals, visas, insurances and uniforms required to execute the opportunity. All funding for this opportunity will be sought, so it is inclusive for all band members, irrespective of household income.

2. As part of our ongoing commitment to creating opportunities for our youth pipe band members, we wish to offer them one of the pinnacle opportunities associated with pipe bands. It provides the young musicians the opportunity for personal development and growth, teamwork, cultural exchange, and musical excellence. The Tartan Day Parade is one of the largest celebrations of Scotland and Scottish heritage anywhere in the world outside Scotland, attracting international attention, and thousands of participants and spectators each year. The project is important for the community as it aligns with the following key priorities:

Population Decline and Youth Migration

By investing heavily in a high-profile, life-changing opportunity, the community shows its youth that they do not need to move to the Central Belt and further south to achieve global recognition. It fosters a deep sense of belonging, transforming local youth into lifelong ambassadors who are far more likely to stay or return to Caithness.

Sports and Recreation

Playing in a pipe band is both a cultural and recreational pursuit. This opportunity elevates local recreation from a weekly hobby to an elite, international achievement, raising aspirations across Caithness.

Health & Well-being

Joining a pipe band provides significant mental health benefits through structured peer support, mentorship, and a strong sense of purpose.

Tourism

When the band marches in New York representing Caithness, they serve as a unique promotional asset. They actively market Caithness as a culturally rich, active destination. This shifts the international perception of the far north from a static tourist stop to a living, breathing. It will provide an unparalleled opportunity for the wider Caithness community to be showcased and promoted on a global stage.

3. The success of this project will be evidenced as the band members continue their journey with the Caithness Youth Pipe Band, future participation in senior Pipe Bands and their own life choices, whether that be by further education, apprenticeships or other job opportunities. We hope that this opportunity provides them with the skills and experiences for them to continue to be well rounded individuals contributing to their communities and the pipe band community. Participation in the Tartan Day Parade would provide an unparalleled opportunity for the Caithness Youth Pipe Band and the wider Caithness community to be showcased on a global stage. This will be evidenced through social media engagement and media coverage.

4. Fundraising activities are actively being undertaken and pursued. As of August 2026, 30% of the funding has been obtained. The band have committed to raising 20% of the project budget and have been actively pursing that goal by holding fundraising events, parading in local shows and highland games, had stalls at local shows and highland games selling merchandise, had a virtual walking / running / cycling challenge and holding various other fundraising activities. Community engagement and support is evidenced through local business sponsorship, e-mail and verbal support from local councillors and through conversations with the local community at local shows, highland games, fundraising events and social media. Quotes have been received from travel and accommodation providers and we are currently awaiting decisions from a number of funding applications.

5. April 2027, with April 2028 as a contingency date if we are unable to secure funding