Point and Sandwick Development Trust

Point and Sandwick Development Trust, established in 2009 as a community-led registered charity in Scotland's Outer Hebrides, promotes social, educational, cultural, and environmental wellbeing for residents of Point, Sandwick, and neighbouring areas. Funded entirely by its pioneering community-owned wind farm at Beinn Ghrideag—the UK's largest—its democratic governance, open to local residents and supporters, embodies values of sustainable development, community empowerment, intergenerational fairness, and environmental stewardship, rejecting short-term 'gap-filling' for strategic, transformational investments shaped by local consultation.

The Trust prioritises seven key areas: community development and rural regeneration, job creation and business support, aid for ageing populations and fuel poverty, youth retention and activities, social inclusion and cohesion, environmental protection and climate action, and cultural/Gaelic heritage preservation. It supports voluntary groups, charities, schools, sports clubs, and partnerships through projects like native woodland planting, hospice care, green skills labs, community hubs, energy-efficiency upgrades, coastal paths, and local events, having invested over £4 million for lasting community impact.

Eligible applicants are UK-registered charities, community groups, or academic institutions based in Point, Sandwick, Western Isles, or Outer Hebrides, with preference for small, grassroots organisations of modest income; large national charities and individuals are excluded. Typical grants range £1,000–£25,000 (up to £100,000+ for strategic capital), covering revenue, capital, core funding, and one-offs. Start with an Expression of Interest via phone or website form, then submit full applications per guidance notes; rolling assessments at trustee meetings, with Small Grant deadline Monday 11 August 2025—contact for advice. Uniquely rooted in local renewable energy ownership, it maximises employment, leverages partnerships, and aligns with national priorities like green transitions and economic resilience.