COVID19 Business Diversification Grant Applications Closing Friday

Published on 01 September 2020

Businesses across Colac Otway Shire are undergoing rapid and innovative transformations in response to the COVID19 situation and a new grants program aims to help offset the costs involved with operation changes.

Colac Otway Shire Council Development and Community Services General Manager Ian Seuren said Council’s COVID19 Business Diversification Grant Program was an important program providing support for businesses that have had to change the way their business operate to comply with restrictions and community expectations.

“Council is urging businesses to act quickly and apply, with applications closing Friday 4 September,” Mr Seuren said.

“We know many businesses have had to close their doors or significantly limit their trading hours, but have taken their business online, set up social media to promote their business, now provide a takeaway or a contactless, home delivery service to keep their operation going and be COVID safe.

“There are businesses that have completely diversified what they produce or sell, possibly venturing into mask or hand santiser production, or now catering for a work-from-home market in some way – and this grants program aims to support our local businesses owners with these changes.

“This is a flexible, one-off program with businesses asked to outline their proposed project, or the project they have undertaken to transform their operations, in their grant application.

“Grants up to of $3,000 are available, requiring a dollar-for-dollar cash contribution from the applicant to match the grant,” he said.

“Projects carried out or being prepared between March 15, 2020 and the funding agreement being executed will be considered.”

Examples of works that can be considered as part of this funding stream include:

For all the details, including program guidelines and how to apply, please visit

https://www.colacotway.vic.gov.au/Community-services/Coronavirus-Information-Resources/Coronavirus-Business-Support-Grants-Program or call our Economic Development Team on 52329400 to discuss how Colac Otway Shire can support your business.