Grant support to build vibrant community

Published on 17 February 2021

Community events and projects that help make Hobart a great place to live are invited to be put forward for grant funding from the City of Hobart.

Applications for Community, Event and Small and Medium Creative grants are currently open, offering a combined $195,000 in funding.

The grants are offered twice a year and have contributed to the success of countless local events, projects and initiatives. 

One recipient of the Community Grant last year is bringing song into the lives of Hobart’s young people.

The Youth Vocal Project (YVP) is an initiative of the Hobart Men’s Barbershop Harmony Club, which has used a City of Hobart Community Grant to introduce young people to a cappella singing.

“We know there’s solid scientific evidence to prove that singing is, in fact, good for your body and your mind,” the club’s Youth Development Team Coordinator Trevor Rootes said. “Members of our club know how great singing is and we love to share it in the community.

“The mission of YVP in 2021 is to build a mixed youth ensemble that enjoys the challenges and rewards of a cappella singing through working, sharing and performing together.

“The group performs a repertoire of contemporary jazz, doo-wop, barbershop, and pop.”

The Youth Vocal Project has already held a holiday program for school students and will be running free workshops in university colleges and accommodation venues.

Lord Mayor Anna Reynolds said the City’s grants program supported a wide range of projects that contributed to a vibrant and inclusive city.

“This financial year, we’ve allocated almost $1.2 million to supporting our community through grants,” Cr Reynolds said.

“Every grant goes to someone who is doing something that makes Hobart a great place to live and visit.

“Whether it’s through delivering events that attract people to our city, celebrating our culture and creativity, or encouraging people to develop new skills and talents in a supportive and inclusive setting – like the Youth Vocal Project – these initiatives contribute so much to our city.”

The Creative Hobart grants are split into two categories – small and medium – offering grants of up to $5000 and $15,000 respectively.

Community Grants of up to $5000 are available to groups and non-profit organisations to develop projects or events – or specific elements of ongoing programs – that enable access and participation or respond to community issues and concerns.

Events Grants provide up to $20,000 to support the facilitation of events that contribute to the identity, economy and wellbeing of the Hobart community.

Applications for each of the grants close at 5pm on Monday 15 March.

Prospective applicants who would like to discuss their project are encouraged to contact the City of Hobart’s Grants Officer prior to lodging an application.

More information on the grants, including eligibility criteria, how to apply and contact details, can be found at hobartcity.com.au/grants.