Grants up to $5,000 available, easier to apply with improved process

Grants up to $5,000 available, easier to apply with improved process

Published on 03 July 2023

Applications are now open for Community Projects grants of up to $5,000. Eligible Community Projects could include community events, projects, environmental initiatives and equipment purchases which align with the priorities in the Baw Baw Shire Council Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan. And, under a new application process, it is easier than ever for eligible groups to take advantage of the opportunity.

Each year Baw Baw Shire Council’s Community Grants program supports not-for-profit community groups and organisations with hundreds of thousands of dollars in funding towards projects that help to build a thriving, healthy and sustainable Baw Baw.

This year, following a thorough review of the program, Council is pleased to introduce a new and improved application process and grant guidelines to make it easier for more groups to apply and receive Council support.

“Our Community Grants program is all about empowering local initiatives and nurturing the irreplaceable contributions made by community groups and organisations in Baw Baw Shire,” says Mayor Annemarie McCabe. “We know that the benefits of these grants often have a ripple effect, extending out into the wider community, so we want to make sure as many groups as possible can take advantage of the opportunity.”

Working with consultants Projectura, Council undertook a review of the existing grants process and guidelines, including targeted and broad stakeholder consultation over three stages from November 2022 to May 2023, to identify where improvements could be made.

The outcome of that process is a revamped program that features:

An easy-to-use single application form, tailored to the application. An updated policy with greater clarity around what can and cannot be funded. Easy-to-read guidelines to support applicants through the process and understand. timelines eligibility and assessment criteria. Opportunity for auspicing arrangements.

Applications for Community Project grants via the new process are open now until Friday 28 July.

Interested applicants are invited to connect with the Social and Community Planning team by emailing [email protected] or calling 1300 229 229 to arrange a mandatory Application by Appointment meeting (over the phone or online) to discuss their project.

During this required step in the process, the team will personally talk applicants through the application process and requirements, and provide them with a link to complete an online application if eligible.

Once submitted, applications will be assessed according to their alignment with Council priorities, community need, the degree of demonstrable management and planning of the project, and whether the project is primarily volunteer driven.

Groups that may not be ready to apply now but have eligible projects coming up in the future are advised that a second round of applications will open in February 2024.

“We are delighted to introduce this new and improved approach to Community Grants,” says Mayor McCabe. “I strongly encourage all not-for-profit groups, clubs and organisations in Baw Baw to look at the new submission guidelines and get in touch if they have an eligible project. Our helpful Social and Community Planning team is ready and waiting to support them.”

For more information about Community Project grants, please visit https://bawbawshire.co/CommunityProjects.