A Perthshire arts centre has smashed its £20,000 fundraising target in its first week.
The team at the centre said they were “completely overwhelmed” by the support and honoured to be part of an “incredible” community.
Following the success of the fundraiser’s first week, the target has been extended to £30,000, with another three weeks of the campaign still to go.
General Manager at Birnam Arts, James Irvine said: “Every additional £10,000 we raise will have a hugely positive impact upon our long term sustainability whilst helping us to cover our costs should the worst happen and we face another period of enforced closure.
“We are continuing to apply for larger sources of funding. However, we are still having to prepare for a shortfall – the outlook is so uncertain and constantly changing.
“With every £1 raised, it takes us one step closer to returning to a form of normality, from increasing the days we open our café to developing plans on how best to safely bring back performances and workshops.”
Current government guidelines mean Birnam Arts does not expect it will be able to schedule live performances or larger gatherings until at least April next year.
However, the team plans to put the next months to good use with plans to improve the look, feel and fabric of the centre.
Before lockdown, Birnam Arts also secured funding from the Gannochy Trust to improve the centre’s efficiency.
The funding, alongside money raised from the crowdfunder, will go towards a new website, lighting system upgrades and sign updates, among other changes.
Arts Development and Marketing Officer, Kate Bell said: “Whatever we raise, we’ll squeeze as much value and benefit out of it as possible.
“We’re already progressing with plans to hold an online arts exhibition later in the year, as well a physical installation of the annual Christmas Market Exhibition – both featuring local and Scotland wide artists.
“Every penny will be put to good use.”
Donations can be made on the Save Birnam Arts crowdfunding page.
