Quick grant helps community stay connected

Published on 09 April 2020

Projects that help connect Hobartians during the COVID-19 pandemic will be eligible for funding under a new City of Hobart Quick Response Grant.

The Resilient Hobart Quick Response Grant opens today, providing funding of up to $1000 to support activities that build capacity, strength and resilience in the Hobart community.

Lord Mayor Anna Reynolds said this could be through programs that provide support to vulnerable people in self-isolation, an online platform to connect artists with audiences, or other activities that support the message of “physically distanced but still connected”.

“We want to move away from the term ‘social distancing’ because staying socially connected is so important right now,” Cr Reynolds said. “As a community, we need to be there for each other, support each other and – most importantly – be kind to each other.

“We’re lucky to live in a time when technology gives us the ability to reach out to people from anywhere. This grant will support initiatives that use technology to connect people.

“But we’re also mindful that not everyone has access to technology. We invite applications for programs that support vulnerable people in our community, including our older residents and those experiencing homelessness.”

The total funding pool of $22,000 is split evenly into community and creative categories. Funding may assist with digital and online materials and resources, artist fees, promotional costs or physical materials needed to undertake the activity.

The grant is open to registered not-for-profit (NFP) organisations. Other organisations or individuals may apply under an auspicing agreement with a registered NFP.

For full eligibility and guidelines, visit hobartcity.com.au/resilienthobartgrant.

Also open is the eCommerce Quick Response Grant, which offers funding to support the migration of retail sales to an online sales platform.