Council’s 2023-24 Community Grant Programs are now open, with $900,000 in annual funding available. This is a chance for local community groups and organisations to receive funding to deliver worthwhile projects, programs and events that strengthen our community.

Council Director Community and Recreation Services, Melanie Smith said local community groups and organisations have until 30 June to apply for funding to help bring their big ideas to life over the next 18 months.

“The three grant programs allow a diverse range of activities, projects and events to be funded to support local groups and organisation to deliver initiatives that enhance community connection, activate places and spaces and improve quality of life on the Central Coast,” Ms Smith said.

“All grant programs have been developed to support activities and projects that can be delivered within an 18-month timeframe, so it’s important to be aware if that if you’re looking at delivering a project prior to October next year we encourage you to apply now!

"Free grant information sessions and drop-in sessions are available this June to support community members through the application process.

“I encourage anyone interested in applying and looking at ways to strengthen their application to register to attend a session”

Council’s 2023-24 Community Grants Program include:

• Community Development Grant Program – A program dedicated to supporting community organisations to implement specific projects, services and activities that provide community outcomes, respond to the needs of the community and enhance the quality of life of residents of the Central Coast. This program opens 1 June 2023 and closes 30 June 2023, up to $20,000 per application with a total annual program allocation of $300,000.
• Community Events and Place Activation Grant Program – A program which aims to support local organisations to deliver community events and activities that activate spaces and places to complement activity around town centres, foreshores, lakes and green spaces for the community and visitors. This program opens 1 June 2023 and closes 30 June 2023, up to $20,000 per application with a total annual program allocation of $300,000.
• Community Support Grant Program - Is a program aimed to support the community to deliver activities which require a small amount of funding and/or assistance with Council Services. This is a small grant program, open all year round and assessed monthly, up to $5,000 per application with a total available annual program allocation of $300,000.

Council Administrator, Rik Hart said Council’s Community Grant Programs are important in helping put ideas into action.

“The available programs are essential to enhance community capacity to support activities, initiatives and projects that benefit and have a positive impact on our local community,” Mr Hart said.

To view grant guidelines, how to apply and information on the grant information drop-in sessions, visit centalcoast.nsw.gov.au/grants