Grants program open Wednesday 24 June

Community groups and organisations across the shire are being encouraged to apply to East Gippsland Shire Council’s grants programs, with round one now open.

Applications are invited for a wide range of activities, which may include those looking to hold a community celebration or event, build strength and resilience by empowering people of all ages and abilities to feel engaged and connected, have an energy audit, or run an environment project.

Funding is available in three categories: Community Project Grants; Arts and Heritage Grants; and Regional and District Event Sponsorship. Any funded activity in this round need to start after May 10.

The program’s funding is available for a wide range of activities and council officers are available to answer questions and discuss project ideas.

Mayor Cr John White said most grants are awarded to community groups and organisations, however some of the Arts and Heritage grants are available to individuals.

“Some of the grants also need a dollar-for-dollar contribution, half of which can be a non-monetary, in-kind contribution,” Cr White said.

“I encourage groups that had applications revoked in the last round of funding due to COVID-19 restrictions and were unable to hold events to consider resubmitting applications in this round of grants.”

Grants of up to $5,000 are available for Community Project grants, Arts and Heritage grants. Grants of up to $10,000 are available for major arts projects. The funding for Regional and District Event Sponsorship is unique as event organisers can apply for up to three years funding.

“I encourage everyone to think about what their club, facility or group want to achieve and look into whether it fits into the criteria for the grants.

“Council has been able to support many worthwhile projects and groups through the Council Grants Program over many years and it is a pleasure to see the positive impact of this funding,” Cr White said.

For more information on the grants program, including the guidelines and previous funding recipients, visit council’s website, eastgippsland.vic.gov.au/grants or contact council.

Applications are completed online through council’s website and close on Wednesday, August 5, at 5pm.