ABZ Propeller Fund at Aberdeen International Airport awards £30,000 to worthy projects

MSP Jackie Dunbar on a visit to Gairn Community Garden in May 2025

Aberdeen International Airport is celebrating another successful year for the ABZ Propeller Fund, which has awarded £30,000 to 21 organisations across the north-east in 2025.

From music and sport to sustainability and social support, these grants have helped bring inspiring ideas to life in local communities.

Since its relaunch in 2022, the fund has now distributed over £120,000 to 95 organisations, reinforcing its commitment to education, sustainability, and economic regeneration.

Bruce Watson, Chairman of the ABZ Propeller Fund, said: “We’re thrilled to have supported such a wide range of projects this year. From helping young people get outdoors to creating sensory spaces and promoting biodiversity, these initiatives make a real difference.

“Our fund is highly competitive but still a fantastic way for organisations to get financial support to get their projects off the ground.

“I want to thank the fund’s committee members for all their continued hard work and I look forward to seeing how many of the projects we have supported progress in the future.”

Chair of the ABZ Propeller Fund Bruce Watson visiting Greyhope Bay earlier this year.

Jackie Dunbar, MSP for Aberdeen Donside and member of the ABZ Propeller Fund added: "It's aways great to see how groups are able to do so much with the funding they get from the ABZ Propeller Fund.

"There were some tough choices to make this year with so many applications from groups that do so much good in their communities. I've had the chance to see for myself how some of this funding is making a difference and it looks like people got the most out of every penny."

Cllr Alan Turner, chair of Aberdeenshire Council’s Infrastructure Services Committee, added: “Once again I am delighted to see the wide range of innovative and inspiring community projects across the region being supported by the ABZ Propeller Fund.

“From Kintore Scout Group receiving funds to create more camping opportunities for young people to Home-Start Kincardine supporting young people in the local community, Stonehaven Town Partnership being able to purchase new tables and chairs for community groups to the Garioch Community Kitchen developing its Cooking with the Community initiative.

“Through this financial support, local community groups and charities in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire are able to continue providing vital opportunities and services for residents of all ages and I very much welcome the continuation of this important funding stream.”

Highlights from 2025

• Banffshire Community Band brought music to life with local concerts.
• Greyhope Bay enhanced wildlife experiences with its Binos for Biodiversity project.
• Instant Neighbour launched Upcycling: Building Skills, Protecting the Environment, promoting sustainability and skills development.
• Beannachar created a new sensory room to support its community.
• Bucksburn Academy inspired innovation through its Girls in Tech – Innovation Accelerator Atelier.

Other funded projects included sailing opportunities, community food gardens, hospital outreach, and sports initiatives like the Denis Law Legacy Trust’s Streetsport programme.

Organisations interested in applying are encouraged to review the fund’s guidelines and more information on the fund for 2026 will be released next year. Visit Aberdeen Airport Propeller Fund | Aberdeen Airport for more information.

ABZ Propeller Fund 2025 recipients