Applications for community grants now open

The Putt Putt Regatta is a previous recipient

Central Coast Council’s 2023-24 Community Grant Programs are now open, with $900,000 in annual funding available.

This is a chance for local community groups and organisations to receive funding to deliver worthwhile projects, programs and events that strengthen the community.

Community and Recreation Services Melanie Smith said local community groups and organisations had until June 30 to apply for funding to help bring their big ideas to life over the next 18 months.

“The three grant programs allow a diverse range of activities, projects and events to be funded to support local groups and organisations to deliver initiatives that enhance community connection, activate places and spaces and improve quality of life on the Central Coast,” Smith said.

“All grant programs have been developed to support activities and projects that can be delivered within an 18-month timeframe, so it’s important to be aware if that if you’re looking at delivering a project prior to October next year we encourage you to apply now.

“Free grant information sessions and drop-in sessions are available this June to support community members through the application process.

“I encourage anyone interested in applying and looking at ways to strengthen their application to register to attend a session.”

The 2023-24 Community Grants Program includes: the Community Development Grant Program, the Community Events and Place Activation Grant Program and the Community Support Grant Program.

The Community Development Grant Program is dedicated to supporting community organisations to implement specific projects, services and activities that provide community outcomes, respond to the needs of the community and enhance the quality of life of residents of the Central Coast.

The Community Events and Place Activation Grant Program aims to support local organisations to deliver community events and activities that activate spaces and places to complement activity around town centres, foreshores, lakes and green spaces for the community and visitors.

Both of these programs open June 1 and close June 30, with up to $20,000 per application available and a total annual program allocation of $300,000.

The Community Support Grant Program aims to support the community to deliver activities which require a small amount of funding and/or assistance with Council services.

This is a small grant program, open all year round and assessed monthly, up to $5,000 per application with a total available annual program allocation of $300,000.

Administrator Rik Hart said Council’s Community Grant Programs are important in helping put ideas into action.

“The available programs are essential to enhance community capacity to support activities, initiatives and projects that benefit and have a positive impact on our local community,” he said.

To view grant guidelines, how to apply and information on the grant information drop-in sessions, visit centalcoast.nsw.gov.au/grants.

Source:
Central Coast Council