Council's Small Business Fund Pilot Program Projects Announced

The launch of Council’s inaugural Small Business Fund Pilot Program was a huge success with 20 applicants applying for a shared total of $20,000 from Council to help support and stimulate eligible small businesses and start-ups with a one-off grant of up to $5,000.00.

The program was introduced to encourage and support the growth and success of small businesses within the Shire, providing funding support for a wide range of business development initiatives and enabling access to the resources needed to achieve positive business goals.

Deputy Mayor, Cr Susannah Pearse remarked “Council is proud to have launched this program that helps us give back to our small businesses, the backbone of our Shire, who are so critical to the vibrancy of our communities."

“The Small Business Funding Pilot Program is all about encouraging the growth of businesses, enabling them to venture out and try something new or improve their amenity”, said Cr Pearse. 

Council received applications from a number of diverse industries and we would like to congratulate the following recipients to fund the following projects and initiatives.

Name of Business

Details of proposal

Raine and Horne

Mural

Botanica Home

Upgrade to Balo St-facing shop front window.

Mungindi Newsagency

Signage, awning and decal

A Tasty Surprise

Website update to enable click and collect service.

Christopher Picone

Restoration of render on facade of Balo St art deco building

Chill Out Bar

Signage and marketing for new Chill Out Bar

Council received a high interest for funds exceeding the original total program allocation of $20,000 which has solidified Council’s future decision to budget for the program again in the 2023-24 Operational Plan and Budget.

Council thanks all businesses who applied for the pilot program and encourages all small businesses and start-ups to apply in the 2023-24 financial year. Council will advertise when the next round of funding will be available.