Community grants open

THE City of Greater Geelong (COGG) has opened its latest $825,000 community funding program for submissions, with a key focus on sectors hit hard by the pandemic.

“This round of grants will support the arts, culture and heritage sectors, local community groups and community event organisers impacted by COVID-19 to continue to deliver their activities and programs,” deputy mayor Trent Sullivan said.

Funding categories for the program include COVID-19 Arts, Culture, Community and Heritage Recovery Grants; Community Events Quick Response Grants; Environmental Sustainability Grants;

First Nations Cultural Heritage Grants and Neighbourhood Houses Grants.

The funding is part of COGG’s $4.9 million Community Grants scheme for the financial year of 2021-22, “approximately $3 million higher than 2018-19 levels”, Cr Sullivan said.

“We’ve shown a continuing commitment to strengthening our Community Grants program, increasing the total funding available in consecutive years.”

The grants range in value from $3000 to $10,000 and can be used to kickstart community events, environmental sustainability projects, and equipment purchases.

“The latest funding follows our investment of more than $3.1 million in Community Infrastructure Grants and Geelong Heritage Grants to more than 40 projects across our region,” COGG finance chair, Cr Anthony Aitken said.

“$44,000 in environmental sustainability grants for projects that enhance our natural environment and drive environmental sustainability actions, and $50,500 in grants to Neighbourhood Houses for local community development projects.”

A second-round opportunity is also on offer for a First Nations Cultural Heritage grant for projects that support and protect Aboriginal cultural heritage.

The funding pool for Community Events Quick Response Grants will remain open until June 1 unless funds are exhausted, while applications for the remain grants close at 5pm on Monday, March 14, 2022, except for the First Nations Cultural Heritage grant which closes at 5pm on Monday, April 11, 2022.

Further information about the grants, the application criteria and how to apply is available at www.geelongaustralia.com.au/grants.