Port residents with bright ideas for community-minded projects are being encouraged to apply for a share of more than $170,000 in grants.
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Applications for Port Stephens Council's annual grants program covering Aboriginal, community, cultural, environmental and heritage projects are open from Monday, April 8 until 5pm on Monday, May 13.
"It's a broad range which means that any worthy idea, at any stage, can be developed and brought to life," Port Stephens Mayor Ryan Palmer said of the grant categories.
"We're looking for projects which add vibrancy to our community, empower our people and make Port Stephens a better place to live, work or play.
"If you've got a bright idea that fits into any of these categories, I'd encourage you to apply."
Features of the the council's grant programs:
Aboriginal Projects Fund
- Aims to support and empower the local Aboriginal community
- $35,000 available annually
- Grants up to $10,000
Cultural Projects Fund
- For projects contributing to a stronger sense of belonging and pride in the community as well as activate local places.
- $60,000 annually
- Grants up to $3,000
Environmental Projects Fund
- 355c Committees of Council and Council volunteer groups can apply for up to $2,000 annually per group.
- Schools can apply for up to $1,000 for environmental projects for their schools.
Community Projects Fund
- Aims to support sporting, community service activities and community celebrations.
- $36,000 available annually
- Grants up to $2,000
Heritage Projects Fund
- Aims to support heritage assessments, conservation policies and management plans as well as conservation work on heritage buildings, heritage landscape works and interpretation projects involving research and presentation of heritage items.
- Grants up to $2,000 to be matched dollar for dollar
This year the council is offering residents and groups wishing to apply an opportunity to attend a workshop to help strengthen their application.
A workshop will be held at Raymond Terrace Library between 11.30am and 12.30pm on Wednesday, April 17 and at Tomaree Library between 5.30pm and 6.30pm on Thursday, April 18.
"We'll be hosting workshops to help groups or individuals with their applications," Cr Palmer said.
"I'd encourage anyone thinking of applying to come along to get some tips on developing your idea and writing the application.
"Each year, I'm impressed by the standard of applications and the creativity we have here in Port Stephens. I'm excited to see what projects are put forward this year."
More information on the council's grants program is available at: portstephens.nsw.gov.au.
The ClubGrants program is also currently open to projects addressing community welfare and social services, community development, employment assistance activities, community health services and projects aimed at improving the living standards of low income and disadvantaged people.
Applications are open from now until May 12. Apply at: clubgrants.com.au.