Applications are now open for Community Projects grants of up to $5,000. Eligible Community Projects could include community events, projects, environmental initiatives and equipment purchases which align with the priorities in the Baw Baw Shire Council Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan. And, under a new application process, it is easier than ever for eligible groups to take advantage of the opportunity.
Each year Baw Baw Shire Council’s Community Grants program supports not-for-profit community groups and organisations with hundreds of thousands of dollars in funding towards projects that help to build a thriving, healthy and sustainable Baw Baw.
This year, following a thorough review of the program, Council is pleased to introduce a new and improved application process and grant guidelines to make it easier for more groups to apply and receive Council support.
“Our Community Grants program is all about empowering local initiatives and nurturing the irreplaceable contributions made by community groups and organisations in Baw Baw Shire,” says Mayor Annemarie McCabe. “We know that the benefits of these grants often have a ripple effect, extending out into the wider community, so we want to make sure as many groups as possible can take advantage of the opportunity.”
Working with consultants Projectura, Council undertook a review of the existing grants process and guidelines, including targeted and broad stakeholder consultation over three stages from November 2022 to May 2023, to identify where improvements could be made.
The outcome of that process is a revamped program that features:
- An easy-to-use single application form, tailored to the application.
- An updated policy with greater clarity around what can and cannot be funded.
- Easy-to-read guidelines to support applicants through the process and understand. timelines eligibility and assessment criteria.
- Opportunity for auspicing arrangements.
Applications for Community Project grants via the new process are open now until Friday 28 July.
