The Forbes Fund: Hyperlocal Grantmaking in the Highlands
A fund dedicated to one village – the place, the people, and its future.
The Forbes Fund illustrates philanthropy rooted in place – a fund designed to protect both a community and its landscape long beyond the lifetime of its founder. To ensure long-term giving, they chose the popular combination of an invested fund and a grantmaking fund with Foundation Scotland.
Each year, we move a small percentage of the invested fund over to the grantmaking fund. Half of this allocation is used to provide steady, annual support for a range of third-sector services that communities across Scotland have come to rely on. The remaining funds are directed with greater flexibility and a local focus, supporting charitable organisations and community-led projects in Newtonmore.
Since its establishment in 2003, the Forbes Fund has awarded over £190,000. In Newtonmore, the fund has recently contributed to scaffolding for community events, a new gate for a tennis club, trips for local primary school children, and the construction of a new footpath to improve safety and access.
It is a significant example of how a long-term, place-based approach to giving can create practical, lasting improvements for everyday life.
Case study: Newtonmore Camanachd Club’s Footpath Project
Led by the local shinty club, this project created a new dedicated pedestrian route to the club, with gated access at both ends and improved fencing. The aim was simple and important: to improve pedestrian safety by moving foot traffic away from the main entrance, which is shared with vehicles and not suitable for pedestrians.
The new route has made a clear and positive difference, especially for children and during busy periods such as training sessions, matches, and the Highland Games. During major events, the club can welcome large crowds, with previous gatherings seeing over 300 people queuing close to or spilling onto the road.
By providing a safe, direct walking route into the site, the project has significantly reduced risk and improved the overall experience for everyone visiting the club. It is expected to benefit several thousand people over time through both everyday use and major community events.
Giving Back to Your Community
We can be part of many different, overlapping communities throughout our lives – shaped by place, interests, experiences, and beliefs. Setting up a fund can be a meaningful way to support the communities you care about, now and in the future.
If you’re interested in exploring your options with Foundation Scotland, please get in touch at development@foundationscotland.org.uk