Applications are now open for this year’s round of Community Grants and I can’t wait to see which inspired community members throw their hats into the ring.
The Community Grants program is one of the most rewarding initiatives we offer, providing vital funding to businesses, community groups and not-for-profits that help make Greater Geelong a vibrant place to live.
This year the City has dedicated $2.85 million to the program to fund projects spanning Community Infrastructure, Arts Projects, Clean Economy, Climate Change Partnerships, Community Events, Environmental Sustainability, Community Strengthening, Community Equipment and Creative Seed categories.
A diverse range of local projects and initiatives were successful in their application for grant funding last year.
Ocean Grove Film Society was able to get off the ground with a grant going towards the purchase of a state-of-the-art projector and sound equipment.
Securing this grant ensured film buffs from across the region can now gather for monthly screenings hosted at Bellarine Training and Community Hub.
Just over the bridge, the Barwon Heads Arts Council secured funding to support the continued success of the Bellarine Arts Trail. A much-loved event, the trail brings together 40 venues to showcase local artists in a fantastic event over the Melbourne Cup long weekend.
Sustainability initiatives were also awarded funding in the 2024-25 Community Grants, with 100% Clean Bellarine securing $21,500 for its energy assessments program.
The program runs out of Ocean Grove and Indented Head, enabling small businesses to improve their energy efficiency.
Parents for Climate was successful in its grant application to fund the One Planet Festival. The event is designed to empower the community to take action on climate change in a fun and engaging way.
Another fantastic community event, Tranquility at Twilight, received funding to support its annual program at Ocean Grove Park, offering a family-friendly evening with food, market stalls and live entertainment.
If you are considering applying for funding in this year’s program, don’t be deterred by the application process.
While grant writing can be daunting, the City has a range of information sessions to help you on your journey.
These grant-writing workshops are designed to help you craft a strong application.
Our team will take a detailed look at the application questions, explain what makes a good application and give examples of what to avoid.
The information sessions will explain the 2025–26 grants offered, cover key eligibility criteria and highlight any changes in the guidelines.
On Wednesday August 20 the Community Infrastructure grants category will be covered in a hybrid session at our Wurriki Nyal civic precinct in central Geelong, with options for prospective applicants to dial in.
All other categories will be discussed in hybrid sessions scheduled for Wednesday 13 August and Thursday 14 August.
Our grants help turn your idea into reality. So, if you have a project that you think would make Geelong an even better place, I urge you to submit an application.
To register for an information session, visit geelong.link/Grants
