A DISTILLERY in Islay has helped to fund a wide range of environmental and community projects in the first year of a new scheme.
The Ardbeg All Islay Fund has seen £200,000 shared between several projects after being set up in 2022 with a £1 million donation by the distillery.
It was established following the record-breaking sale of Ardbeg Islay single malt whisky’s cask No. 3 to a private collector for £16m.
Partnering with local development organisation South Islay Development (SID), the fund invited sustainability projects and organisations such as sports and cultural groups to apply for support.
A total of £200,000 has been allocated per year for the next five years. In the first year, 28 organisations that applied for support were granted funding. These included:
- Islay Karate Club – Used their £4444 funding to buy new suits and sparring equipment as well as to bring black belts over from Glasgow to offer training
- Islay Book Festival – Used funding to make the 2023 festival more inclusive and affordable, with a diverse programme featuring special guests, live performances and free events
- Bowmore Lunch Club – Provided transport and volunteers for a summer of local activities, including bingo, sing-songs, birthday celebrations and visits to other seniors groups
New applications welcome
The fund is now inviting similar groups and organisations to apply for the next allocation.
Applications will be open between January and March 2024 and considered by a panel made up of two SID directors, five members of the local community, and a representative from the Glenmorangie Company (owners of Ardbeg Distillery) with funding awarded from spring 2024 onwards.
It aims to support a variety of projects, including those that help to support active lives, build community resilience and enhance the environment.
Caspar MacRae, CEO of the Glenmorangie Company, said: “We’re delighted to see so many members of the Islay community enjoying the benefits of The Ardbeg All Islay Fund in its first year.
“It’s great that it’s already making a real difference to life on the island.”
