Sykes: Guideline Shift for Rural Community Funding
The Nationals Member for Benalla, Bill Sykes, has urged not-for-profit organisations throughout the Benalla Electorate to apply for funding through the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal (FRRR) grants program.
Bill Sykes said the "Seeds for Renewal" program Strengthening Community Enterprise, sponsored by the ANZ Bank, targets rural communities with a population less than 15,000 people. Grants of up to $10,000 will be available for successful not-for-profit organisations with an ABN / Incorporation.
In prior years funding has been directed to projects involving youth. This year application guidelines are community based and funding is available for organisations which contribute to the development of communities through the following -:
- Community and Social Enterprise that supports volunteer initiatives at a local community level;
- Demonstrates community collaboration.
Bill Sykes said he was constantly asked about government funding for rural communities during his visits around the electorate.
"Small communities often do not have the resources which they require so I am very aware and supportive of the need to secure funding from other sources."
As part of the 2009 "Seeds for Renewal" grants program $300,000 has been made available for projects within rural Victoria.
"I encourage groups within the electorate to develop a good submission by carefully studying the selection criteria," he said.
Application forms and guidelines can be obtained from www.frrr.org.au
Grant seeker enquiries can be made on Freecall 1800 170 020 or email info@frrr.org.au
Applications are to be postmarked by Friday 19 June 2009 and posted to-: FRRR Seeds of Renewal, PO Box 41 Bendigo 3552
Further information and can be obtained by phoning grants researcher, Peta Clark, on 5762 2100.