Glasgow 2014: Games chief David Grevemberg announced the £4m fund. Pic: © SNS Group
A £4m fund for cultural groups has been unveiled to coincide with the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games.
The grants programme was announced on Wednesday, as Games organisers seek to develop a "vibrant creative programme" to run alongside the sporting event.
Artists, community-led groups and arts organisations are invited to apply for grant ranging from £20,000 to £300,000 as part of the scheme created by Glasgow 2014, Creative Scotland and Glasgow Life.
The initiative aims to encourage cultural projects and events in both the run-up to and during Glasgow 2014.
David Grevemberg, chief executive of the Games, said: "We want passion and drama off the field of play - an exciting, ambitious and accessible programme of cultural events - to become a defining feature of how we host the XX Commonwealth Games.
"Scotland’s largest ever sporting and cultural event will be the perfect stage to showcase the creativity of the nation as we take Scotland to the Commonwealth and celebrate Commonwealth cultures on home soil."
Humza Yousaf, External Affairs Minister, added: "The ambitious Cultural Programme for Glasgow 2014 is proof that there’s more to these Commonwealth Games than sport – it’s a phenomenal opportunity to promote Scotland’s modern and vibrant culture at home and on the world stage and to celebrate our place in the Commonwealth.
"As a national showcase of exceptional new work, it will offer innovative ways for audiences in Glasgow and across Scotland to see, experience and participate in our diverse cultures. This will help to strengthen, support and sustain our cultural sector by providing opportunities for artists and creative practitioners."
