Shire’s sponsorships and event grants to return

THE Event Grants and Sponsorship Program in the Surf Coast Shire has been updated for the coming financial year as the council looks to foster a sense of community.

The shire says new funding streams for boutique creative and special focus events will add diversity to the support available for successful applicants from not-for-profit and commercial sectors.

The boutique creative funding category will support arts and cultural events that attract visitors from outside Surf Coast Shire, as well as enriching the lives of residents.

The special focus category is designed to support events which champion social, cultural, health or environmental aspects in the community, while attracting visitors from outside the shire.

Both categories offer grants from $500 to $7,500.

“Council’s Event Grants and Sponsorship Program recognises the importance of events in fostering community, cultural and economic growth across our shire,” Cr Rose Hodge said.

“They are part of our identity and vitality as a region, and since this program was established in 2014 it has provided valuable support for more than 60 events.

“After the many cancellations of 2020, we look forward to seeing events back on our calendars, showcasing our townships and hinterland areas, and connecting communities.”

Grants are also available for community events ($500-$3,000), and tourism events ($2,000-$10,000).

Event sponsorship is considered on application, with the application process highly competitive.

Grant application criteria considers opportunities for economic development, social and cultural benefits and event environmental sustainability.

The Event Grants and Sponsorship Program will open for applications from February 1-28 for events to be held in the shire between July 1 this year and June 30 next year.

For more information, including the 2021-22 program guidelines, head to surfcoastevents.com.au.