Bega Valley Shire Council's Community Grants Program is now open for applications.
Corporate Planning and Improvement Manager, Kaliegh Smerdon said the Community Grants Program includes Community Environment Grants, Waste Wise Events Grants, Community Waste Minimisation Grants, Bega Valley ClubGRANTS and the Business Activator Grants.
"We encourage community groups and organisations across the shire to read the Community Grants Program guidelines and if you have an eligible project, we welcome you to apply for one of these great grants," Ms Smerdon said.
Under the Community Environment Grants, up to $6,000 is available for organisations that have projects to protect, restore or enhance our wetlands, coastal foreshores, riverbanks, and wildlife corridors, or engage in innovative environmental education projects should apply.
The Waste Wise Events Grants offer up to $5,000 to assist community groups putting systems in place at their events which result in minimal waste going to landfill. Successful projects in the past have included things such as encouraging greater and correct use of yellow and green bins, making reusable and recyclable items available to food vendors, donating unsold food to local pantries, hiring bin attendants, and increasing signage at bin stations and other prominent areas to help people choose the right bin for their waste.
Under the Community Waste Minimisation Grants, up to $5,000 is available for projects that educate and encourage sustainable waste management behaviour and support Council's vision of reducing consumption, re-using what we can and increasing recycling to harness the benefits of local waste transformation.
Under ClubGRANTS, eligible organisations can apply for grants of up to $10,000 for projects and services that contribute to the wellbeing of local communities. The funding is provided by six registered clubs across the shire: Bermagui Country Club, Club Bega, Club Sapphire Merimbula, Eden Fishermen's Recreation Club, the Merimbula RSL and Tura Beach Country Club.
Businesses can also get a boost this year with grants of $2,500 or $5,000 on offer under the Business Activator Grants program, for small businesses that have participated in the Business Activator program and attended a free business support session. These grants help small businesses achieve the goals and objectives identified in their one-on-one support sessions and workshop programs.
