Deadline: 05-Dec-2025
The Annandale and Nithsdale Community Benefit Company (ANCBC) offers a significant funding opportunity for community groups in Dumfries and Galloway through its wind‑farm‑linked grant fund.
Backed by ScottishPower Renewables, the fund channels an annual, index‑linked contribution—estimated at around £300,000—into local projects designed to benefit the communities around the Harestanes Wind Farm.
Grants ranging from £500 up to £20,000 are available. In some cases, multi‑year awards of up to three years are considered, though the total funding over time cannot exceed £20,000 for a single project. Projects must primarily benefit one or more of the 42 community council areas within the ANCBC catchment zone, although proposals from beyond the area may be considered if they demonstrably benefit residents locally.
The fund supports a wide variety of community initiatives. Eligible proposals include those that regenerate rural communities, enhance facilities and services, support sustainable development, foster local enterprise and skills, improve health and well‑being, expand transport and connectivity, preserve heritage, and address climate and environmental goals. Applicants may seek support for capital costs, equipment, refurbishment, running costs, staff or sessional workers, consultation, and refurbishment or development of community assets.
Applicants seeking funding over £2,000 must provide match funding: grants between £2,001 and £5,000 require at least 25% match, while larger requests up to £20,000 require 50% match. Local procurement of goods and services is encouraged wherever feasible, and proposals should demonstrate community consultation and support, as well as partnership where appropriate.
Decision‑making is managed by a board nominated from community council areas (divided into East, South, and West), with community members serving as directors. When applications are considered, priority is given to projects that show clear local benefit, sustainable impact, and good value for money.
For community groups within Annandale and Nithsdale looking to fund transformative local projects—with backing from renewable energy revenues—ANCBC’s grants provide a powerful tool to build stronger, more resilient communities.
For more information, visit Foundation Scotland.
