Housing construction projects are being revived through a share of a £1.8 million loan fund.
The money, for firms unable to secure private finance for associated infrastructure such as roads and sewers, will help build 207 homes in Edinburgh, Midlothian and North Ayrshire.
Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon announced the latest round which is part of a wider £10 million expected to support more than 1,000 new homes.
"The criterion for the second round of funding was revised to untie red tape so that more companies could come forward with their infrastructure proposals," she said.
"As a result, the latest successful applications will lead to diggers rolling back in on sites across Scotland."
The announcement comes one day before Ms Sturgeon is expected to publish an updated infrastructure investment plan. It will set out the Scottish Government's plans up to 2030.
Four schemes were given access to the loan fund. They include two developments totalling 164 homes in Edinburgh, a 76-unit development in Newtongrange, Midlothian and 26 properties in Irvine, North Ayrshire.
