ABZ Propeller Fund donates £25,000 to worthy projects

18 organisations have shared in £25,000 of funding through the ABZ Propeller Fund.

Previously known as the Aberdeen International Airport Community Fund, the ABZ Propeller Fund is open to groups, charities, and organisations with links to education, sustainability, and economic regeneration.

Among those who have received funding is the Aberdeen Science Centre, who hosted a celebration event with 2022 fundees today (December 1).

It received funding to expand its range and availability of educational loan boxes.

The boxes are available for schools, community groups and other organisations to borrow and use in their own classroom, garden or community setting.

Groups can choose from a Bioblitz box, which include binoculars, mini telescopes, bug pots, ID guides and an activity booklet to help youngsters explore nature in their playgrounds; or a Planet Protectors box, which includes a portable air quality monitor, soil testing monitor, activity guides and stationery. 

Bryan Snelling, chief executive of Aberdeen Science Centre, said: “We are extremely grateful to the ABZ Propeller Fund for the generous funding, which has allowed us to develop new resources for both schools and community groups and extend our STEM education beyond the centre itself.

“While the centre is open to everyone we know there can barriers which make it difficult for some groups to visit in person, so our outreach work provides a vital bridge between the science centre and our community, allowing even more people of all ages to engage in science and make new discoveries.”

The Russell Anderson Foundation has also benefited from funding from the ABZ Propeller Fund to create lifestyle changes at Kirkhill Primary School. Funding was used to purchase equipment for health eating classes with the priority to make sustainable positive outcomes for children and their families.

Graeme Burnett, Chief Executive of the Russell Anderson Foundation, said: "ABZ Propeller Fund grant award helps to make positive lifestyle changes for local community"

Bruce Watson, chairman of the ABZ Propeller Fund at Aberdeen International Airport, said: “The ABZ Propeller Fund is a great way for community groups, charities and organisations to get help with funding and get their project off the ground.

“We encourage groups with a focus on young people, sustainability or that make a tangible and real difference in their local communities to consider applying for funding.

“We were delighted to back the ABZ Propeller Fund this year and to meet with who received funding and hear more about their projects was the cherry on top.”

“However, we are delighted to be relaunching with a new name for our group, the ABZ Propeller Fund.”

Members of the ABZ Propeller Fund include airport staff, as well as representatives from the local authorities and government.

The search is now on for applicants for 2023 with the committee meeting four times a year.

More information is available at Aberdeen Airport Propeller Fund | Aberdeen Airport

Successful Organisations include: