The Tower Digital Arts Centre
Delivery of a business plan alongside a public awareness and fundraising campaign.
“Community Enterprise became a vital member of our team!"
- The Tower Digital Arts Centre
The challenge
The Tower Digital Arts Centre was the only cinema within 20 miles of Helensburgh and a well-loved arts hub. Volunteers, staff, and keen supporters first approached Community Enterprise in 2023, after the owner announced plans to close.
How we helped
Through Accelerate, we supported the newly formed steering group in planning its steps to secure the Tower's future, while volunteers and staff set about running the cinema in the short term.
In 2024, we conducted a feasibility study on community ownership of the B-listed converted church building through a new community company, The Venue @ St Columba. Over 2000 people in Helensburgh and beyond took part in a survey, and hundreds turned up to interactive events in the Tower's main auditorium. With this huge show of support, we worked with the group to develop a strong business case rooted both in the experience of the Tower's staff and volunteers and the interests of the community.
The result
£10,000 raised through crowdfunding and strong public awareness achieved through the 'Save the Tower' campaign
Business plan created
The Venue at St Columba considerably raised its profile and managed to crowdfund over £10K as part of its funding strategy. In 2025, they secured over £200,000 from the Scottish Land Fund towards the community purchase of the building.
Feeling inspired?
If you are part of a community group who is not yet trading
and would like free support to become more sustainable
and enterprising, check out our Accelerate programme.