Community Grants now open

Strathbogie Shire Council has updated its community grants program to better deliver outcomes for the community.

Mayor, Cr Laura Binks, said the grant amount had been doubled to $10,000 and Council had simplified processes for application and administration.

There are now three funding opportunities for community groups and an events funding stream.

“Council recognised the current financial grant of $5000 was no longer enough to see fantastic community projects come to life,” Cr Binks said.

“Groups will now be able to apply for Community Strengthening Grants of up to $10,000 – with applications open from now until August 7.

“The $1000 Quick Response Grants will be open year-round, and approval is by the CEO ensuring they are quick and accessible.”

The funding pool for Event Grants has increased from $30,000 annually to $50,000, with event organiser able to apply for up to $5000.

Council’s grant review highlighted the need to simplify the model for community and Council.

“We’re excited to present a new funding model that removes category restrictions and encourages significant projects with greater benefits for the community,” she said.

“Our Community Action Groups and Community Houses are now also eligible to apply.

“In one big change, community infrastructure maintenance and upgrade projects have been excluded from the community strengthening grants as these projects need to be referred to Council’s Building and Maintenance Budget and assessed accordingly in line with Council’s renewal program.

“This maintains the focus of the grants program on strategic projects with tangible deliverables for the community.”

Cr Binks said the grants were a great way for organisations to invigorate their ideas and bring them to fruition.

“Whether it is a small request for grant funding or a larger request which is supported by other contributions, our Community Strengthening Grant Program provides a great opportunity to achieve inspiring projects that are aligned to our Council plan,” she said.

For 2023/24 financial year there will be one-off access to funding to facilitate community conversations around how townships will mark January 26 with grants up to the value of $5000 per township.

Cr Binks extended an invitation to potential applicants to attend either an online or face-to-face workshop.

The workshops will be held on July 13, 2023 to introduce the new community funding model and guide community members on how to prepare a grant application and answer any specific questions around project suitability.

Bookings can be made via https://events.humanitix.com/community-strengthening-grant

Please read our Frequently Asked Questions for more information.