Supporting projects within the community council areas of Abbey St Bathans, Bonkyl and Preston; Cranshaws, Ellemford and Longformacus: Duns; Gavinton, Fogo and Polwarth
The fund helps local sports clubs grow, develop, and improve, ensuring that people of all ages can participate in activities that promote health, teamwork, and community spirit. Whether it's upgrading facilities, purchasing new equipment, or supporting grassroots programs, we’re committed to fostering an active and engaged community.
Investing in sustainability and environmental initiatives, the fund supports projects that enhance local green spaces, improve biodiversity, and promote renewable energy solutions. From tree planting and wildlife conservation to community gardens and eco-friendly initiatives, we help create a cleaner, greener future for everyone.
We believe in the power of community and creativity. The fund supports local events, arts programs, and heritage projects that bring people together, celebrate culture, and strengthen local identity. Whether it's a village festival, a new mural, or funding for local artists, we’re here to help communities thrive through shared experiences and artistic expression.
Do you have a community project that requires funding? Will your project benefit people in the Blackhill Community of Berwickshire? If so, you may be eligible to apply for a Blackhill Community Fund grant.
Please read the Funding Guidelines page before applying, to see if you are eligible for our funding.
If you are eligible, fill in the application form online.
Our next meeting date is 14th May 2025,
so please have applications into us by 30th April 2025
The Black Hill Wind Farm Community Fund Ltd is a charitable organisation funded by Renewable Energy Systems Ltd (RES), the operators of the Blackhill Wind Farm situated to the south of Longformacus, Berwickshire.
We grant aid to community projects within the community council areas of Abbey St Bathans, Bonkyl and Preston; Cranshaws, Ellemford and Longformacus: Duns; Gavinton, Fogo and Polwarth. In exceptional circumstances grants may be awarded to groups outside our catchment, providing there is clear evidence of a significant impact within our area. Such judgements are made at the discretion of the board.
The fund is managed by a board of 4 Directors representing each Community Council, one director from RES and up to 4 Independent Directors.
We have an annual budget of about £35,000 and over recent years we have provided grants of between £300 – £5,000 in support of about 20 applications per annum. The average award has been circa £1,500. The success of your application will be improved by showing you have explored other funding sources. Please be advised that core funding for ongoing salary costs is not usually supported.
We are currently looking to add to our Board of Directors to ensure we present our broad and diverse community.
If you would like to join our small and friendly board, we would love to hear from you.
We are particularly interested in hearing from young people and women. The main qualification required is an interest in and commitment to your community.
Thanks to funding from the Blackhill Windfarm Community Fund, the local tennis courts have been freshly repainted and fitted with new nets—boosting efforts to attract new players. Free “come and try” sessions, after-school clubs, and a successful holiday camp have helped engage young people in the sport. The club plans to continue growing participation while maintaining the courts for future use.
This project aimed to refurbish and repair a number of local amenities in our local area, including two local bus shelters, railings, benches, cutting back shrubbery and renewal of signs.
The project allowed older residents from the Westruther community to share their memories and experiences with Primary 4 to 7 pupils from the primary school.
