Banff, Macduff and district Community Planning

04/06/2026

📣APPLICATIONS ARE NOW LIVE | The First Minister’s Start Up Challenge.

🗣A Scottish Government programme delivered with and Dechomai, supporting young people aged 18–30 across Scotland to turn great ideas into real, thriving businesses.

😊Over 6 months, you’ll join a structured entrepreneurial apprenticeship, attend expert weekly masterclasses, gain hands‑on experience, and access incredible funding: £500 to test your concept, £5,000 to launch, and a top award of £30,000 for the standout winner.

📝Know a young person with big ideas and drive? Tag them and share this opportunity! Full details, eligibility criteria, and how to apply are available here: https://www.dechomai.co.uk/

❗Application Deadline: 24 June 2026

04/06/2026

Banff creative hub Vanilla Ink The Smiddy discusses expanding opportunities in the shire

The latest episode of Seasonal Discussions features Drew Markou, workshop manager at Vanilla Ink The Smiddy, in a conversation exploring creativity, community engagement and the future of the arts in rural Aberdeenshire.

Hosted by Chris McDonald, the episode examines how Vanilla Ink The Smiddy was established and the role it aims to play in supporting creative development beyond Scotland’s cities. Drew reflects on his own journey from England to the North-east of Scotland, alongside the organisation’s ambition to widen access to creative skills and opportunities.

Watch >> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DjGakwsEyZ0&t=280s

03/06/2026

The Crown Estates Coastal Communities Fund for the Banff and Buchan area has opened for a second tranche.

Deadline for applications is 5pm on Wednesday, June 24 and groups will be informed of decisions by July 15.

Every year, some of Crown Estate Scotland's income is allocated to coastal local authorities - including Aberdeenshire Council - and is distributed via grants of between £500 and £5,000.

Once again we’re looking for projects to help fund that are led by public or third sector parties that have a tangible link to the coast or sea which:

✅Help people to develop skills related to coastal or seafaring pursuits, activities or enterprises, for example sailing, fishing, or boatbuilding

✅Celebrate the heritage of coastal and seagoing communities of place and interest. For example, a coastal or fishing village or township, historic boatbuilding, or relevant clubs or organisations

✅Improve access to coastal areas. For example, paths and viewpoints

✅Improve the coastal environment. For example, applications to establish and support community groups looking after their coastline

✅Improve community-controlled infrastructure such as harbours, boathouses and buildings.

For more details, including the eligibility criteria, head to https://www.aberdeenshire.gov.uk/communities/funding/banff-and-buchan

03/06/2026

Volunteer week 🎉

Have you ever considered volunteering but unsure of the requirements and commitments? Pop us a message or give us a call to find out more!

Our training program is very engaging and effective as well as hands-on support from our team of advisors!

02/06/2026

📣SAVE THE DATE ❤️
Family Fun Day will take place at Princess Royal Park on 11th July.

✅ Fun for ALL ages
✅Football, Kids Activies & Food
✅Support a local charity

To book a stall ☎️ 01261 818303

02/06/2026

Lots on at Banff Castle this month 👇

We've got more great events happening this month and throughout the year. Look out for Laser Tag and Mini Golf at the Midsummer Family Fun Run.
https://banffcastle.co.uk/events/

01/06/2026

SURVEY - FUNDING SUPPORT NEEDS
The Banff and Buchan Local Community Planning Group is keen to understand the experiences, challenges, and support needs of community, voluntary and third sector groups when it comes to identifying and applying for funding opportunities. Survey responses will help target support, advice and guidance where it is most needed. The survey has 10 quick click questions and takes between 5-10 minutes to complete.

If you operate within the Banff and Buchan Area, we are very keen to hear from you. From Portsoy to Cairnbulg and Inverallochy, from Aberchirder to King Edward and Memsie, we’d be very grateful to hear about your funding experiences and support needs.

Access the survey here -

28/05/2026

Here is an exciting opportunity for young people in our area. 'Waves of Change' is the theme for the Commonwealth Youth Photography Competition. Scan the QR code for full details or follow this link:
https://www.royalcwsociety.org/environment/cypc
You will find lots of ideas. The inspiration from the Moray Firth and our own Banffshire Coast gives plenty of opportunities for amazing photography!
Royal Commonwealth Society

28/05/2026

🔔 The Deveron Community Sports Centre will now open at 6.30am on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays 🏋️

Rise & Shine!

New for you, we are opening the gym earlier on a Monday, Wednesday and Friday, starting Monday 1st June!

This is an app only exclusive and bookings must be made in advance of the session.

Not sure how to book? Pop in to Deveron Community & Sports Centre and we will help you get the app, get signed in and booked!

27/05/2026

Have your voice heard! 💬
What are your priorities for the local area?
The Local Community Planning Group wants to hear from you! Come along to The Vinery @ Banff on Wednesday 3rd June, 12–2pm for lunch and a relaxed workshop.
We’ll be discussing local food choices, food growing, and food access as part of the new Place Plan for Banff, Macduff and the surrounding area.
Soup & sandwiches available from 12–12:30pm.
Everyone is warmly welcome — whether you’ve been involved before or are coming for the first time. This is your chance to help shape the future of our community!
See you there? 🌱🥪