Grants by locals for locals

READY to provide funds to a broad range of local not-for-profit community organisations twice a year, Ballarat Connected Communities launched last week.

As the new independent charitable body overseeing grants supplied by the city’s three Bendigo Bank branches, Ballarat Connected Communities will help award money to groups coordinating projects that socially benefit the area.

Ballarat Connected Communities Chair, Cameron Montgomery said his board is excited to be set up and ready to give back.

“We are thrilled to announce the first round of grant applications are available. This initiative is auspice by the Bendigo Bank, always thinking of their local community and helping out where they can,” he said.

“All our funding comes from Bendigo Bank, who pay a commission to our organisation when locals tag their account with BCC.

“These commissions are paid as part of the Bendigo Bank’s community engagement budget and are made at no cost to the Bendigo Bank customer. The grants are essentially provided by locals for locals.”

Organisations within the City of Ballarat can apply for a grant on the Ballarat Connected Communities website, ballaratconnectedcommunities.com.au.

The first application process closes on Friday, 22 November. Forms will be assessed by a committee and successful groups will be notified after that date.