East Gippsland Shire Council's Community Grants Program has returned and applications are now open.
Council paused the program to review it with the aim to widen the range of activities and projects able to be supported. Community groups and organisations are encouraged to apply for funding for the 2024 Community Grants Program, with grants of up to $20,000 available.
To help people understand the program and how to apply, online and in-person information sessions will be held this month.
Mayor Cr Tom Crook has highlighted the program's significance in supporting local initiatives.
"These grants are tailor-made for our communities. The funding is allocated twice a year so Council can support our local groups to put on an event, run a program, or purchase something that will benefit the wider community," Cr Crook said.
"We encourage everyone with a community-centred project to apply."
Up to $3,000 is available as a Small Grant for community-strengthening activities, governance enhancements, training and development, promotions and small equipment purchases.
Between $3,001 and $20,000 is available as an Impact Grant for community development, cultural development, or environmental sustainability initiatives.
"This funding can be put towards a diverse range of projects, so I encourage locals to get creative and think of innovative and meaningful ways to use it in their community," Cr Crook added.
"We are committed to helping our community thrive and grow through these valuable grants."
To be eligible, applicants must be incorporated or have a letter of support from an incorporated organisation willing to act as an auspice for the project. Exceptions may be considered for individual artists.
Council will host one-hour information sessions to provide details on eligible community groups and projects, the application process, key dates, and grant amounts.
An in-person information session will be held at Bairnsdale Library on Tuesday, June 11 at 1pm. Online information sessions will be held Tuesday, June 11 at 10am and 6pm, and Tuesday, June 25 at 1pm. Visit the Grants page of Council's website to register for a session.
Details about the grants program and the application process is available on Grants page of Council's website. Applications close on Sunday, July 14 at 11.59pm.
