Small Grants Fund to Support Community Projects in Parramatta (Australia)

The Small Grants Fund supports not-for-profit organisations in the City of Parramatta to cover one-off costs for projects, programs, or capacity-building activities. Grants of up to $3,500 help local groups enhance community engagement, develop partnerships, and address social, economic, or environmental needs.

About the Fund

The Small Grants Fund provides financial assistance to voluntary and staffed not-for-profit incorporated organisations for one-off costs that advance capacity building or deliver defined projects. The initiative focuses on community development, social inclusion, and equitable access to resources and services in the Parramatta Local Government Area (LGA).

Funding Objectives

The fund aims to:

• Support community-based groups, sport and recreation clubs, and service organisations

• Enable projects that address social, economic, or environmental needs of Parramatta residents

• Maximise access to community resources, services, and facilities, particularly for people facing marginalisation or social exclusion

• Encourage community participation in project development and delivery

• Strengthen networks and partnerships between local groups, agencies, and the City of Parramatta Council

Funding Details

• Maximum grant: $3,500 per financial year

• Purpose: One-off costs linked to discrete projects or activities

• Application limit: One allocation per organisation per financial year

• Funding can cover supplies, materials, small equipment, event costs, or other project-related expenses

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Be a not-for-profit organisation that is incorporated, or have an auspice from an incorporated not-for-profit

• Operate within, or deliver the project within, the City of Parramatta LGA

• Have no overdue progress or acquittal reports from previous funding rounds

• Ensure the project aligns with the City of Parramatta Community Strategic Plan

How the Fund Supports Organisations

The Small Grants Fund helps local groups:

• Strengthen organisational capacity and deliver effective projects

• Promote community engagement and participation

• Build partnerships with local organisations, agencies, and the Council

• Address specific needs of residents, including social, economic, and environmental priorities

How to Apply

1. Confirm eligibility based on incorporation status, location, and compliance with previous funding

2. Define a discrete project or activity with measurable outcomes

3. Prepare a budget detailing the one-off costs for the project

4. Submit the application via the City of Parramatta Council funding portal

5. Ensure the project demonstrates direct benefits to the Parramatta community

Why the Fund Matters

The Small Grants Fund empowers local not-for-profit organisations to implement targeted initiatives that improve community wellbeing. By funding defined projects and one-off costs, the Council promotes equitable access to resources, strengthens local networks, and encourages active community participation.

FAQs

1. Who can apply? Voluntary or staffed not-for-profit organisations incorporated or auspiced by an incorporated not-for-profit.

2. What is the maximum funding available? $3,500 per financial year.

3. How many grants can an organisation receive per year? One allocation per financial year.

4. Can organisations outside Parramatta apply? Only if the project demonstrates a clear and direct connection to the City of Parramatta.

5. What types of costs are eligible? One-off project-related costs, including supplies, materials, small equipment, and event expenses.

6. Are overdue reports from previous grants an issue? Yes, applicants must have no overdue progress or acquittal reports.

7. What is the main goal of the fund? To strengthen community engagement, develop capacity, and support projects that address Parramatta residents’ needs.

Conclusion

The Small Grants Fund provides a practical opportunity for local not-for-profit organisations to enhance their capacity, deliver meaningful projects, and engage residents in the City of Parramatta. By offering targeted support for one-off costs, the fund enables community groups to effectively address social, economic, and environmental priorities while fostering collaboration and participation.