Shire small grants ready to make big impact

THE Surf Coast Shire council’s popular small grants program is back for the first of two rounds this year with community groups and not-for-profits able to apply for funded projects up to $5,000.

The grants are designed to support community group projects and initiatives, encourage the development of project ideas, and the improvement of services across the region according to the Surf Coast Shire.

The Small Grants program has four grant categories in which local individuals and businesses can apply for, these include:
– Community initiatives
– Environment
– Culture and arts, and
– Recreation and leisure

Deputy mayor Liz Pattison said previous funding has helped kick-start several beneficial community-driven programs.

“It’s about assisting the community to improve health and wellbeing, creative learning and social inclusion opportunities, and care for our environment,” Cr Pattison said.

“The grants are designed to help local clubs and groups get projects going, turning their ideas into activities and initiatives that benefit the community.

“It’s has obviously been a pretty tough couple of years, and sponsorship is a little more taxing for all involved. This funding can help get some worthy projects up and running.”

Projects funded in the previous round included grants for local community garden enhancements, a web tool to help residents and businesses track and reduce their carbon footprint, the development of audio magazines and newsletters, and sports equipment to support up-and-coming athletes.

Grant applications close midnight March 31, 2022 with the next round of small grants this year to take place in September.

The Surf Coast Shire has facilitated the small grants since 2017.

For more information and to apply for this round of Small Grants head to www.surfcoast.vic.gov.au/grants.