Bhlaraidh

Through our Bhlaraidh wind farm, we make around £270,000 per year available for community and charitable projects. Between 2016 and 2041 we expect to invest £7 million in local projects.

Additional funding is committed to the regional Sustainable Development Fund. This fund opens every two years and supports transformational projects across the Highland local authority area. 

PROJECT ELIGIBILITY

Projects in the following community council areas can apply:

  • Fort Augustus and Glenmoriston
  • Glen Urquhart

You don’t need to be a registered charity to apply, but your organisation must have a constitution (governing document or set of rules) and not be set up for individual profit. If you are unsure if your group is eligible, please contact us for advice.

HOW TO APPLY

The Bhlaraidh community fund is administered by two local community organisations. For more information about the funds, and how to apply, please contact the relevant group by clicking on the links below:

Shop Sarah Marshall (1)

FUND CASE STUDY

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Invermoriston Community Store

Invermoriston Community Store is a community benefit society established to take over the operation of the local shop. The facility is run by a combination of paid staff and volunteers, offering a mix of essential supplies, hot snacks, and beverages. 

The store also provides a platform for local craftspeople to showcase and sell their work.

The shop was launched with the support of a £32,000 grant from the Fort Augustus and Glenmoriston Community Company (FAGCC), which manages the Bhlaraidh Community Wind Farm Funds. An additional £21,478 was provided to cover staffing costs, accounting, and the purchase of new fridges and freezers for everyday items.

While visitors form an important customer base, the majority of the store’s 200 “club members” are local residents. This ensures the store remains a vital resource for the community. By offering a convenient place to purchase goods and serving as a social hub, the store strengthens local connections and supports the village economy.

The store’s partnership with local crafters, providing shared space to sell handmade products and opportunities to volunteer - further promotes creativity, fosters community ties, and helps keep money within the local economy.

Shinty Sarah Marshall (1)

FUND CASE STUDY

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Glengarry Shinty Club

Glengarry Shinty Club is a vibrant and active club with a proud history, attracting players from Fort Augustus to Invergarry. With a strong junior section, the club has been a cornerstone of the local sporting community for decades. 

Founded in 1948 through an amalgamation with Fort Augustus under the name Inveroich, the club adopted its current name, Glengarry, in 1976 - and it remains a well-loved institution today.

Like all grassroots sports clubs, Glengarry relies heavily on volunteers to ensure young players have the chance to learn, play, and thrive. Recently, the club successfully recruited five new volunteer coaches to support its growing junior squad, a fantastic achievement that strengthens its future.

To make this possible, Glengarry Shinty Club was awarded £4,060 from the Bhlaraidh Community Fund, enabling them to invest in training and coaching activities. Each new coach has committed to completing:

  • The Foundation Coaching Course

  • Basic First Aid training

  • Full PVG checks for working with young people

As player numbers grew, so did the need for equipment. Thanks to the funding, the club purchased adult and junior camans (shinty sticks), helmets, and shorts, ensuring every player is well-equipped and safe.

These additions mean no one is left on the sidelines. By investing in coaching and equipment, Glengarry Shinty Club continues to nurture talent, strengthen community ties, and keep the proud tradition of shinty alive for future generations.

CONTACT DETAILS

Carol Masheter

Community Investment Manager

Tel: 01738 351576

Mobile: 07721 443044

Email: carol.masheter@sse.com