The MachairWind Small Donations Fund – now in its second year – offers funding of up to £500 for local island initiatives that focus on education, training and research; social initiatives; art and culture; and biodiversity and climate change.

In its first year, the fund – created in direct response to community feedback – awarded funding to a total of 21 projects across the islands.

From music on Mull to JamDram on Jura, the grassroots funding gave a welcome financial boost to a wide variety of organisations, events and initiatives.

Kiera Wilson, ScottishPower Renewables’ MachairWind Development Lead, said: “It’s great to open the MachairWind Small Donations Fund for our next round of applications after a successful first year supporting a diverse range of local initiatives. From fun family events to potentially lifesaving projects, we know that every penny matters and our donations have made a difference. We’re proud to build on this for year two and look forward to seeing the applications come in.

“The Small Donations Fund is only a taster of what’s to come as a dedicated community benefit fund – shaped by local people for local people – will be created if MachairWind is consented and moves into construction. Lasting for the lifetime of the project, this will bring bigger and longer-lasting benefits to the islands.”

In the first round of funding, Islay and Jura Dolphins Swimming Club was awarded £500 to help cover some of the costs of attending the Dolphins Championships earlier this year – the club’s first off-island trip. Serving its island communities for over 34 years, the club supports 62 swimmers aged 7 to 77, with most under 18. It plays a vital role in promoting health, fitness and water safety.

Jura Amateur Dramatics Society (JamDram) received £500 towards the cost of a portable stage, making it easier for the group to stage future productions as well as making it available for other community events across Jura and Islay. Formed in 2022, the group offers opportunities for residents to participate in acting, stagecraft, and event organisation. 

Colonsay Community Council was awarded £500 to support the island’s Marine Litter Clearance Project, which sees volunteers patrolling and clearing marine litter along its 50 miles of coastline, as well as all roadsides, paths and lochsides. The monies helped secure supplies of heavy-duty bags and supported publicity for the campaign and its hard-working volunteers.

Ross of Mull and Iona Community Transport Scheme received £500 to go towards vehicle maintenance. The scheme helps combat social and geographic isolation by providing community transport for the likes of medical appointments, shopping trips and social events. The funding will contribute to the costs of new tyres for the group’s electric vehicle.

Applications for the MachairWind Small Donations Fund can be submitted until 11.59pm on Friday 9 October.

MachairWind could generate up to 2GW of homegrown clean power, boosting the UK’s energy security and delivering significant investment, jobs and opportunities across the west coast of Scotland and beyond.

 To find out more about the Small Donations Fund and how to apply, visit Small Donations Fund