The Manningham City Council Small Grants Program provides up to $3,000 for community-strengthening activities and up to $1,500 for minor equipment purchases in Manningham, Victoria.

The program supports one-off initiatives that enhance community participation, inclusion, local partnerships, and capacity building. Only eligible not-for-profit organisations, auspiced groups, and schools may apply.

About the Small Grants Program

The Manningham Small Grants Program is a local government community funding initiative designed to:

• Strengthen local communities

• Improve quality of life for residents

• Encourage inclusive participation

• Support small-scale, high-impact projects

Funding is non-recurrent and allocated for one financial year only.

Program Objectives

The Small Grants Program aims to:

1. Address Community Needs

Projects must respond to a clearly identified local issue or gap.

2. Increase Community Participation

Initiatives should encourage residents to engage in local activities and events.

3. Promote Inclusion and Accessibility

Priority is given to projects that improve access for individuals and groups with diverse needs.

4. Strengthen Networks and Partnerships

Projects should foster collaboration between community groups and organisations.

5. Build Community Capacity

Activities may include skills development, training, or learning opportunities that create long-term benefits.

Funding Streams

The program offers two distinct streams:

1. Community Strengthening Stream

Maximum funding: $3,000

Supports:

• One-off community events

• Workshops and training sessions

• Cultural or social initiatives

• Community development activities

2. Equipment Purchase Stream

Maximum funding: $1,500

Funding covers:

• Up to 50% of total equipment cost

• Minor equipment that supports community activities

Equipment must:

• Be essential to delivering the proposed activity

• Directly benefit Manningham residents

Funding Structure and Limits

• Total annual program allocation: $90,000

• Funding period: One financial year

• Grants are non-recurrent

• Organisations may receive one Small Grant per financial year

Who Is Eligible?

Eligible applicants include:

Incorporated Not-for-Profit Organisations

Such as:

• Incorporated Associations

• Companies Limited by Guarantee

Auspiced Community Groups

Unincorporated groups may apply if:

• They are partnered with an incorporated not-for-profit organisation

• The auspicing body accepts full legal and financial responsibility

Schools

Schools may apply and are encouraged to:

• Partner with community organisations

• Deliver projects that benefit the broader community

Who Is Not Eligible?

The following are not eligible:

• Individuals

• Unincorporated groups without auspicing arrangements

• For-profit organisations

• Groups seeking recurrent operational funding

Why This Grant Matters

The Small Grants Program plays a strategic role in:

• Supporting grassroots innovation

• Enabling small organisations to test new ideas

• Promoting social inclusion and local participation

• Strengthening community resilience

• Encouraging collaborative local partnerships

Small-scale funding often generates measurable social impact at the neighbourhood level.

How to Apply (Step-by-Step Guide)

Step 1: Identify a Community Need

Clearly define:

• The problem or gap

• Who is affected

• Why the issue matters locally

Step 2: Choose the Appropriate Funding Stream

• Activity-based project → Community Strengthening

• Equipment purchase → Equipment Purchase Stream

Step 3: Confirm Eligibility

Ensure:

• Your organisation is incorporated OR properly auspiced

• You have not already received a Small Grant this financial year

Step 4: Prepare a Strong Proposal

Include:

• Clear objectives

• Expected outcomes

• Community benefits

• Budget breakdown

• Timeline (within one financial year)

Step 5: Submit Application

Follow the official application process provided by Manningham City Council and submit before the deadline.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Applying without proper incorporation or auspicing

• Requesting funding for ongoing operational costs

• Submitting unclear budgets

• Failing to demonstrate a clear community need

• Overestimating equipment costs without justification

• Not showing how the broader community benefits

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How much funding can I apply for?

You can apply for:

• Up to $3,000 under the Community Strengthening stream

• Up to $1,500 under the Equipment Purchase stream (maximum 50% of equipment cost)

2. Can an organisation apply more than once per year?

No. Eligible organisations may receive only one Small Grant per financial year.

3. Can individuals apply?

No. Individuals are not eligible.

4. Can an unincorporated community group apply?

Yes, but only if partnered with an incorporated not-for-profit organisation that acts as an auspice body.

5. Are the grants ongoing?

No. Funding is non-recurrent and limited to one financial year.

6. What types of equipment are eligible?

Minor equipment that directly supports community activities and benefits Manningham residents.

7. Can schools apply independently?

Yes. Schools are eligible and are encouraged to collaborate with community groups for wider impact.

Conclusion

The Manningham Small Grants Program provides targeted, short-term funding to strengthen local communities through inclusive activities and essential equipment support.

With clear eligibility criteria, structured funding streams, and a focus on measurable community impact, this program offers a practical pathway for not-for-profit organisations and schools to deliver meaningful, community-driven initiatives in Manningham.