Community called to make a difference through Community Funding Program

Do you have a project that will help support the Port’s status as a business, events and tourism destination?

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Details are now available for the 2024 to 2025 Community Funding Program, which includes 11 funding categories to support social, cultural, environmental, and economic initiatives in Port Stephens.

Mayor Ryan Palmer said more than $300,000 in grants and sponsorship funding are 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 neighborhoods, support local businesses, and enhance the social, cultural, environmental and economic life of our communities.

"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 looking forward to seeing a range of new applications come through this year” he added.

The 2024 to 2025 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 2 September to 1 October Round 2: Open 3 Feb to 3 March 2024
Vibrant Spaces Micro Grant Fund	Up to $1,000 per application	$15,000	Applications accepted year-round
Vibrant Spaces Fund	Up to $5,000 per application	$50,000	Round 1: Open 2 September to 1 October Round 2:  3 February to 3 March
Aboriginal Projects Fund	Up to $6,000 per application	$40,000	Applications accepted year-round
Community Event Development Fund	Up to $3,000 per application	$50,000	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 2024	Applications open 13 January to 13 February
Mayoral Academic Scholarship	$2,000 scholarships available	$50,000 in 2024	Applications accepted year-round
Rapid Response Fund	Up to $500 per request	$2,000 for each Councillor	Applications accepted year-round
Environmental Projects Fund	Up to $5,000 per application	$20,000 per financial year	1 Sep to 30 Sep 2024
Mayoral Funds	Funds granted at the discretion of the Mayor and adopted by Council	$50,000 per financial year	Applications accepted year-round

For more information, to view the guidelines and apply, visit pscouncil.info/community-funding