Half a million pounds is being made available to help break down inequality in the workplace.
The £500,000 fund to promote equality was launched by Employability Minister Jamie Hepburn on Thursday during a visit to Fife.
It offers grants to help organisations reduce employment inequalities, discrimination and barriers for minority ethnic people, women, disabled people and older workers.
It will be delivered by the Voluntary Action Fund, which has its head offices in Inverkeithing.
Mr Hepburn met staff from VAF and received a demonstration of the online application system to the fund which is offering grants to private and third sector organisations.
He said: “We want the same employment opportunities for all so that everyone, irrespective of gender, race or disability, has the opportunity to fulfil their potential and improve Scotland’s economic performance as a result.
“I am delighted to open applications for the workplace equality fund, which will make funding available to businesses to change attitudes, cultures and workplace practices.
“I would strongly encourage every employer to find out how they and their workforce can use this fund to remove barriers to equality.”
Keith Wimbles, the chief executive of Voluntary Action Fund, added: “The Voluntary Action Fund is very pleased that the Scottish Government is investing in the private sector to promote workplace equality and address barriers to entry and progression in employment.
“VAF is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion in the workplace and through its business activities.
“We are therefore delighted to manage the workplace equality fund on behalf of the Scottish Government and look forward to working with businesses to maximise the impact of the investment.”
