On 3 September 2026, the Scotland Office reported releasing the first £52.1 million from the £140 million Local Growth Fund after approving five regions' three-year investment plans. The fund is directed at Scotland's Regional Partnerships containing areas with the lowest Gross Disposable Household Income per capita, and allocations are made in proportion to population.

Year 1 amounts released were: Glasgow City Region £22,684,596 of a £60.9 million three-year allocation; Edinburgh & South East Scotland £14,095,909 of £37.8 million; Tay Cities Region £7,256,931 of £19.5 million; Ayrshire £4,400,298 of £11.8 million; and Forth Valley £3,665,499 of £9.8 million. The release followed months of work with regional partners, and Year 1 funding was cleared to regional Accountable Bodies on or around 28 August 2026, according to the release.

Scottish Secretary Douglas Alexander said the funds would support local leaders to create skilled jobs, help start-up businesses and revive local high streets. The fund covers the financial years 2026/27 to 2028/29, with later years rolled out as regions progress through their plans and annual reviews.