Community called to make a difference through Community Funding Program Port POPUP - DAupdate Port Stephens Port Stephens News by News Of The Area - Modern Media - September 6, 2023 Karuah by night. Photo: Magnetic Shots. DO you have a project that will help support the Port’s status as a business, events and tourism destination? Applications are now open for the 2023-24 Community Funding Program across 11 funding categories to support social, cultural, environmental and economic initiatives across Port Stephens. Advertise with News of The Area today. It’s worth it for your business. Message us. Phone us – (02) 4981 8882. Email us – media@newsofthearea.com.au Mayor Ryan Palmer said more than $300,000 in grants and sponsorship funding are now available to help shape vibrant neighbourhoods, liveability and inclusive communities. “Our annual Community Funding Program has seen some great initiatives come to life, from programs that help embed Aboriginal perspectives into early learning for children to major events like Sail Port Stephens, which continues to welcome many visitors to our beautiful coastline,” Mayor Palmer said. “There’s a great cross-section of funding streams available to empower applicants to reinvigorate our streets and neighbourhoods, support local businesses, and enhance the social, cultural, environmental and economic life of our communities,” Mayor Palmer said. “It’s a quick and simple online application form but if you get stuck and need some help, or have any questions, contact the team to get some helpful tips for a successful application. “We’re looking forward to seeing a range of new applications come through this year,” he added. The event sponsorship grants are available for projects that promote vibrant spaces, attract local and out of area visitation and promote Port Stephens as an events hub. The 2023–24 Community Funding Program streams are: Funding stream Amount available Total pool Applications open Community Support Fund Up to $6,000 per application $70,000 Round 1: Open 28 Aug to 30 Sep 2023 Round 2: Open 19 Feb to 5 April 2024 Micro Grant Fund Up to $1,000 per application $10,000 Applications accepted year-round Vibrant Spaces Fund Up to $6,000 per application $25,000 Round 1: Open 28 Aug to 22 Sept 2023 Round 2: Open 19 Feb to 5 Apr 2024 Aboriginal Projects Fund Up to $6,000 per application $35,000 Applications accepted year-round Community Event Development Fund Up to $3,000 per application $30,000 Applications accepted year-round Major Event Sponsorship Fund Negotiated upon consultation Varies Applications accepted all year-round International Women’s Day Scholarship $1,000 scholarships available $3,000 in 2023 Applications open 1 Jan 2024 and close 29 Jan 2024 Mayoral Academic Scholarship $2,000 scholarships available $40,000 in 2024 Applications open 1 Sep 2023 and close 15 Jan 2024 Mayoral Funds Funds granted at the discretion of the Mayor and adopted by Council $50,000 per financial year Applications accepted year-round Rapid Response Fund Up to $500 per application $18,000 per financial year Applications accepted year-round Environmental Projects Fund Up to $5,000 per application $20,000 per financial year 1 Sep to 30 Sep 2023 Applications for grants and sponsorship funding are open now. Further details can be viewed at pscouncil.info/community-funding
