Central Coast Council is calling on local community groups, not-for-profit organisations and individuals with great ideas to improve the community, to apply for funding under the new Community Grants and Sponsorship Program.

The program amounts to over $1.4 million.

Council’s revamped funding program aims to simplify applications and better support and build capacity across the entire Central Coast community.

Council Administrator, Mr Ian Reynolds, said Council’s Community Grants and Sponsorship Program is all about giving the community more opportunities to apply for funding to support their community projects, events, programs and initiatives.

“This is a chance to think outside the square to deliver unique and innovative projects or events to the Coast that really make a difference,” Mr Reynolds said.

“No matter how big or small, we want to hear all your ideas as we want to see programs come to life that will highlight the Central Coast.”

There are a number of new categories in Council’s community grants program:

• Community Partnership Grant
• Community Development Grant
• Place Activation Grant
• Community Support Grant
• Heritage Grant
• Awarding Sponsorship Program
• Chan Valley Colliery Community Funding.

Applications are now open and will close on Friday 15 September.

To help applicants get a better understanding of each category and how to apply to make their project happen, Council is hosting a number of information sessions across the Coast. There will also be support sessions where applicants can drop in to get one-on-one assistance with their application.

• Thursday 17 August, 1.30-3.30pm - Central Coast Council Office, Wyong
• Thursday 17 August, 5.30-7.30pm - Erina Centre
• Thursday 24 August, 1.30-3.30pm - Woy Woy Library
• Friday 1 September, 1-3pm - The Entrance Community Centre
• Friday 8 September, 1-3pm - Kincumber Library
• Friday 15 September, 1-3pm – Blue Haven Community Centre

For more information on the program and for a full list of information sessions, visit centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/makeithappen