Last year was a year of firsts for us, and not just because we filled more bottles than ever before. Through our Live Bold Community Fund, it was our biggest year of giving back yet, with £6,000 invested in grassroots organisations across Scotland. From helping people live healthier lives to encouraging movement, connection and plenty of smiles, these projects delivered bold ideas where they matter most.
Created several years ago to back initiatives that make a real difference, the Live Bold Community Fund supported six brilliant charities and clubs throughout 2025. Each one brought its own creativity and commitment to building stronger, happier communities, and we were proud to play a part in making it happen.
This year’s recipients were Four Pillars Unity Hub & Café, Gordon Rural Action, Fraserburgh Ramblers 50+ Walking Group, Banff RFC, Banff Castle Pipe Band and Fit-Ba Sports. A mix of projects that prove there’s no single way to live bold, as long as you’re bringing people together.
Fit-Ba Sports, delivers free health and wellbeing sports sessions to pupils in rural areas of deprivation, including Crudie, Auchterless, Turriff, King Edward and Fyvie. By removing barriers to organised sport, the programme helps young people stay active, build confidence and feel connected, all to take the pressure off of families.
A key part of their work is the Rising Star project, which supports P7 pupils develop leadership skills by delivering activities to younger pupils within their schools. Using their Live Bold funding, Fit-Ba Sports invested in new football and tennis training equipment and additional learning resources to strengthen leadership development for Rising Star pupils.
Robert Bartlett, Founder of Fit-Ba Sports, said: “The equipment and resources funded by Macb are vital in ensuring our session content is the best it can be. We’ve been focusing on teamwork through football and building motor skills through tennis-based activities. Helping young people grow, gain confidence and enjoy sport, without any pressure on families, is what our programme is all about.”
Nelly Edwards, Macb Brand Manager, said: “This year marks our biggest-ever total of Live Bold Fund support, and each recipient has inspired us with their commitment to healthier, happier communities. We care deeply about the people around us, and we’re proud to support projects that make a real difference.”
Four Pillars Unity Hub & Café (Aberdeen)
Received a £1,000 donation and 200 bottles of Macb to sell and raise additional funds. The support helped repair and refresh the 4Unity Hub, a vital drop-in space for the LGBT+ community.
Gordon Rural Action
Used its donation to purchase an interactive whiteboard for its Community Meeting Space, supporting baby first aid and other training courses, alongside improved storage for its baby bank and uniform exchange.
Fraserburgh Ramblers 50+ Walking Group
Received funding for a Balmoral Castle visit, including tickets, food and transport, as well as branded Macb caps.
Banff RFC
Used its Live Bold donation to support a Rugby Minis & Tots festival, investing in a gazebo and outdoor notice board to support future events.
Banff Castle Pipe Band
Was able to source new practice instruments, replacement equipment and updated uniforms to support its non-profit music activities.
Alana Cook, Events Organiser for Banff Castle Pipe Band, said: “The support has helped us replace worn-out equipment and essentials like new ties for uniforms. As a non-profit with no tuition fees, having strong instruments and updated kit helps us keep traditional music alive in Aberdeenshire.”
Nominations for the 2026 Live Bold Community Fund are open and you can apply here. If you’re part of a project doing something special or know one that deserves a boost, we’d love to hear about it.
Apply now at https://macb.co.uk/live-bold-community-fund/.