Green Aspirations Scotland CIC, a rural social enterprise based near Port of Menteith in Stirling, has secured a £30,000 funding boost to purchase a new kiln. The investment ensures the continuity of its sustainable charcoal production, which generates around 30 per cent of the organisation's revenue and funds community woodland work.
Funding prevents disruption to income stream
The existing kiln had neared the end of its working life, threatening to disrupt a vital income stream. Charcoal sales support green woodworking, craft workshops and outdoor learning sessions, particularly for young people who struggle in mainstream education. The new kiln reduces turnaround time between burns, increasing output, improving reliability and giving customers greater confidence of supply.
Charcoal is produced sustainably using wood from Scottish community-owned forests or surplus timber left over by local tree surgeons. All income is reinvested directly into the CIC's wider community work.
Social impact beyond charcoal
Paul Cookson, director at Green Aspirations Scotland CIC, said: “The charcoal side of the business is much more than just an income stream. It helps fund important opportunities for people to get outdoors and learn new skills in nature.”
Support from Social Investment Scotland
Derek Gardiner, investment manager at Social Investment Scotland, added: “This is exactly the kind of investment that can make all the difference, by stepping in where traditional lenders can’t and ensuring that social enterprises, wherever they are, have access to the affordable finance they need to succeed.”
