Foundation to fund innovation

THE Ballarat Foundation has launched their annual grants program with something new for 2022.

Aiming to reduce disadvantage across the city and respond to the social and economic impacts of the pandemic, the Foundation is encouraging community groups with new, unique, and creative welfare-boosting ideas and initiatives to apply for the Ballarat Innovation Grant.

CEO Andrew Eales said organisations working in the areas of housing or food security, or with children and young people, will be eligible for this new funding bundle worth up to $50,000.

“To make real change to reduce disadvantage within our community, we need to continue to evolve our approach to supporting those working to make a difference,” he said.

“The purpose of the Ballarat Innovation Grant is to provide an opportunity to seed-fund projects which otherwise wouldn’t get off the ground… We think it’s a great way to promote new thinking.

“To drive solutions to our biggest areas of social need, it’s important that we encourage not-for-profit and community groups to drive projects which prevent people reaching crisis point.”

Community impact, Courier Charity Fund, Wendouree-Delacombe, and Peter Amor Sports Participation grants are all still available this year.

Groups interested in applying can also attend a free information session on Wednesday, 20 April on Zoom at 1.30pm. Visit ballaratfoundation.org.au for more information.