SOCIAL enterprises in Aberdeen can now apply for a share of a £2m funding pot designed to support voluntary organisations with the transition to net zero.
The Social Enterprise Just Transition Fund – supported by the Scottish Government – has been extended following a successful pilot year, during which seven social enterprises received financial support for sustainable projects.
A Just Transition means moving to a more sustainable economy, diversifying the regional economy away from carbon-intensive industries, ensuring the creation of good, green jobs and ensuring all communities directly benefit and contribute to the region’s future prosperity.
Managed by Social Investment Scotland (SIS), the Just Transition Fund offers sums of between £20,000 and £400,000 comprising a mix of grant and loan funding.
Applicants must demonstrate their organisation’s commitment to a just transition by delivering different outcomes.
These include empowering and invigorating local communities, sharing the benefits of climate action to address social inequalities and addressing issues related to fuel poverty.
Among the organisations that received support through the fund last year is the Aberdeen Arts Centre, which secured finance to help with net zero upgrades to its facilities.
Following a £34,000 award from the fund, the centre revamped its stage lighting, with 15 new LED lanterns helping to cut its energy footprint.
Màiri McAllan, MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Net Zero and Just Transition, added: “The Scottish Government is determinedly supporting communities in the North East and Moray to make the transition to net zero.
“It has been great to see the enthusiasm with which social enterprises have responded to the Social Enterprise Just Transition Fund and this year we have doubled funding support from the Scottish Government.
“I encourage social enterprises in the North East and Moray to apply with sustainable projects which will help to bring environmental and economic benefit, green jobs and greater equality to the region.”
