A local parliamentarian is encouraging councillors to seize funding opportunities from a new UK Government growth initiative.
Dumfries and Galloway constituency MP Alister Jack believes the Levelling Up Fund, confirmed in this week's Budget, could have been tailor-made for the region.
A funding pot of £800 million will be available to communities across Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales.
It is part of wider efforts to spread growth and prosperity more evenly across all of the UK.
The investment, designed to be taken forward by local authorities, would be targeted at areas such as town centre and High Street regeneration, local transport, cultural and heritage projects.
Ministers believe investment in local infrastructure which has a visible impact can strengthen communities and potentially economic growth.
Mr Jack points out that Dumfries and Galloway has been categorised as a level one area -- top priority -- for support through the scheme.
It also qualifies, he explains, for an additional £125,000 launch funding payment to the local authority to help cover the cost of preparing bids.
Mr Jack, who is also Scottish Secretary, believes there are existing and still to be identified projects in his constituency which could potentially be taken foreword through the scheme.
He said: "From Stranraer's economic revival to Dumfries town centre and communities in between I believe there are projects which could benefit from this fund.
"I'm raising awareness amongst colleagues at the council of the Levelling Up Fund's potential as we emerge from this difficult period."