Delivered via Maven Capital Partners, the deal represents the fund’s first equity investment in the Highlands and Islands, with the funding set to enable the distillery to embark on a programme of growth, including scaling up production, supporting the whisky maturation process and expanding its headcount on the island.

Reviving a recipe first crafted over 130 years ago, Benbecula Distillery began production in spring 2024 and has quickly established itself as a distinctive new voice in Scotland’s whisky industry. Its visitor centre and café opened in April 2025, attracting locals and tourists with guided tours and whisky tastings, island-inspired cuisine, and creating new employment opportunities for the Hebridean community.

The business is led by founder, Angus MacMillan, and managing director, Hector MacLeod, both born and raised on the Islands. Distilling is overseen by master distiller Brendan McCarron, whose career has included senior roles with Moët Hennessy and Distell, and is admired for critically acclaimed whiskies he has created for Glenmorangie, Ardbeg, Oban, Tobermory, Deanston and Bunnahabhain.

The deal comes as Benbecula Distillery launched its strictly limited second private cask offering, providing whisky enthusiasts and investors with the opportunity to secure early access to the distillery’s spirit ahead of the first bottled releases. Following a sell-out cask sale last year, a further 120 casks, in three varieties are now available: Palo Cortado Hogshead, Red Wine Barrique and Bourbon Barrel. The distillery only plans to sell private casks in its first three years of production.

Angus MacMillan, founder of Benbecula Distillery, said: “Securing this investment is a major milestone for us and for the island. It gives us the ability to scale production with confidence, continue creating skilled jobs locally, and develop visitor experiences that bring people closer to our story.

“Most importantly, it allows us to keep laying down spirit for future generations. Benbecula Distillery was founded to celebrate the Outer Hebrides’ people and place and this backing helps us realise that vision.”

Sarah Newbould, senior investment manager at Nations & Regions Investment Funds, the British Business Bank, said: “The Investment Fund for Scotland was created to fund ambitious businesses across the country, and Benbecula Distillery is the perfect example of the kind of bold, community-rooted venture we’re proud to see the fund support.

“This investment will not only fuel the development of a distinctive whisky brand but also drive job creation and economic growth in the Outer Hebrides, inviting locals and visitors from further afield to visit the Isles and try some of Scotland’s best spirit.

“The distillery team’s dedication to its craft and local impact mirrors our mission to help smaller businesses succeed and we are eager to see where they take the brand next.”

Rob Stevenson, investment manager at Maven, said: “We’re excited to announce our investment in Benbecula Distillery and to back an ambitious and passionate local Hebridean team.

“What stood out to us immediately was the distillery’s dedication to craft, a deep respect for industry tradition, and a clear vision for the future, which includes a strong commitment to doing things the right way. We believe the investment has the potential to bolster the island community while building a brand that celebrates Scotland’s whisky heritage.

“Benbecula Distillery was first introduced to Maven and the Investment Fund for Scotland as part of a ‘Meet the Investor’ clinic, hosted by Maven to connect entrepreneurs across Scotland with growth capital. Benbecula Distillery is the second business to secure investment through this programme, underscoring Maven’s commitment to supporting ambitious businesses nationwide.”