Global Communities Fund

The Global Communities Fund is a collaborative initiative between Ƶ and the Edinburgh University Students’ Association (EUSA). It offers funding and support for student-led events that promote internationalism, multiculturalism, and intercultural dialogue at the University of Edinburgh.

Fund aims

Projects supported by the Fund are expected to demonstrate meaningful impact for the international student community at the University of Edinburgh, as well as the broader communities they engage. Events and initiatives should aim to achieve one or more of the following:

  • Empower international students by fostering a sense of community and belonging
  • Build bridges through intercultural dialogue between international and home students
  • Showcase and celebrate internationalism and multiculturalism at Edinburgh
  • Encourage global citizenship by building awareness of diverse cultures and global perspectives

Recent Highlights (2024–25)

The most recent round supported 17 student-led projects, covering a vibrant mix of cultural, educational, and community-building initiatives. Highlights included:

Afrospin

An inclusive fitness initiative, which offered Black heritage students a safe space to connect and celebrate African and Caribbean cultures.

Ramadan Iftars

Hosted by the Islamic Society, providing free communal meals to foster community during the holy month.

Body as Database

A participatory dance project which explored multicultural identity through movement, culminating in a public showcase.

China and the UK: A Global Relationship

A cross-university workshop, encouraging student dialogue on international relations and presentation skills.

Edinburgh Games and Global Food Fair

Multi-sport single day event modelled on the Olympics and supplemented with a Global Food Fair, where 10+ International & Multicultural Societies displayed their country/regions’ food to celebrate multiculturalism and create community.

Makan-Makan

A collaborative food festival between the Malaysian and Singaporean student societies to celebrate and promote Southeast Asian cultures through food.

Building Community, Sharing Identity

Ongoing project to build a support network to help international students (particularly those of East African descent) feel included in unfamiliar environments and foster connection among the East African society’s diverse membership

These initiatives empowered students to share their stories, celebrate cultural heritage, and create stronger connections across communities.

  • Students enjoying the Afrospin session on spin bikes
  • A group photo of the Afrospin students
  • A room full of people at the China and the UK: A Global Relationship workshop
  • A large group photo taken at the Climate Workshop

Key information for applicants

Before applying, please carefully review the application pack, which includes:

  • A checklist of eligibility and requirements
  • Detailed application guidelines
  • Terms and conditions for funding

Although applications for 2024/25 are closed, we encourage interested students to begin planning for future rounds by familiarising themselves with the process.

The Global Communities Fund has made a tangible impact on the student experience this year, supporting 17 student-led projects aimed at celebrating internationalism and multiculturalism, promoting intercultural dialogue and building community, belonging and connection amongst international students. We’ve been thoroughly impressed by the quality and variety of proposed activities, ranging from sharing cultural traditions through food, music and other creative practices to developing engaging strategies to tackle socio-political issues and explore identity. Successful applicants have communicated how the fund has made a meaningful difference for their project, highlighting the importance of the fund in providing students with essential financial support.

Sara Pocher and Katie Griffiths Co-leads of the Development Fund project

This article was published on