Over $300,000 total grant funding will be available – a significant investment by Council, working in partnership with the expertise of local community groups and organisations and giving a boost to the local economy and local employment.

The Community Infrastructure Grants Program aims to assist not-for-profit and community organisations to undertake capital projects that enhance the economic, social, and environmental well-being of the local community.

“The Community Infrastructure grant program empowers community groups to be involved in improving a wide range of community assets, from sporting grounds to playgrounds, from child care centres to foreshores that the whole community benefits from. Our valued community groups can bring their expertise, vision and energy to enhancing our local area; which is invaluable” said Madeleine Lawler, Council’s Section Leader Community Planning and Engagement.

Projects that could be eligible for funding may include new community infrastructure projects, refurbishment of existing infrastructure, projects that build capacity into infrastructure, and innovative projects that serve community benefit.

The objectives of the Building Together: Community Infrastructure Grants are for Council to:

Assist in the provision of innovative community projects that target community needs and result in direct benefits to the wider community Assist in increasing the participation, accessibility and range of community organisations for the residents of the Coffs Harbour City Council area. Provide a consistent, equitable and transparent process to respond to requests by community organisations for funding of capital infrastructure Encourage partnerships and joint ventures to maximise outcomes

To be eligible for funding under the Community Infrastructure grant program, the applicant is required to demonstrate co-funding to a minimum of 50%.  This co-funding could be in cash, grants, in-kind labour, materials supply or other, with the proviso that the applicant is required to make at least a 20% financial cash contribution.

See guidelines for further information: https://www.coffsharbour.nsw.gov.au/Community-and-Recreation/Grants/Pages/Capital-Community-Grants.aspx

Check out the ‘DIY Grant Writing Tool Kit’ by Coffs local Kerry Grace, Director of Regional Development for Regional Development Australia Mid North Coast: https://bit.ly/3vImedO