A £15,000 fund has been set up to allow businesses and groups in the north-east to kick-start projects in time for Christmas.
The Enterprising Challenge Fund has been made available as part of ongoing efforts to regenerate the communities of Banff and Macduff.
Different levels of support are available for innovative projects offering benefit to the two towns which demonstrate businesses and groups coming together.
To qualify, businesses and organisations must be working in collaboration, with at least one business per project.
Proposals have to show an increase in footfall, demonstrate creativity, promote the use of a vacant space or improve town centre vibrancy.
Sums of £1,000, £1,500 and £2,000 are available.
Chairman of the Banff and Buchan area committee Andy Kille said: “We should not underestimate the importance of supporting and encouraging innovation from the communities in Banff and Macduff.
“By developing collaborative projects between businesses and community organisations we strengthen our towns and bring people together, so I’m pleased to see this fund coming forward in support of that.”
Aberdeenshire Council’s project officer on the scheme, Naomi Mason, added: “Through the regeneration work we have done so far and listening to feedback from the community, we know there is a desire for support for local people to do more for their town.
“Hopefully this fund will do exactly that and I’m looking forward to seeing what businesses and community groups come up with, and seeing those projects add to what these towns already have to offer in the coming months.”
Interested businesses and groups can contact Ms Mason for more information on 01467 539201 or email: naomi.mason@aberdeenshire.gov.uk
Applications must be in by November 27 at 12pm to allow the projects to take place before Christmas if needed.
All projects must be completed by April 6.