The City of Ballarat Community Impact Grant Program (CIGP) provides funding to strengthen community capacity, social connectedness, and environmental sustainability in Ballarat. Grants support innovative projects that foster inclusion, skill development, wellbeing, and sustainable practices, with funding available from under $2,000 up to $20,000 per organization. Eligible applicants include incorporated not-for-profits, unincorporated groups with an incorporated auspice, and partnered organisations based outside Ballarat.
Overview
The CIGP aims to empower residents and groups in Ballarat to deliver projects that improve community wellbeing, inclusion, and environmental sustainability. The program encourages collaborative, innovative initiatives that enhance participation, social connectedness, and capacity building across all ages and backgrounds.
Funding Priorities:
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Healthy, Safe, and Welcoming Communities: Promote inclusion and participation for all residents, particularly those at risk of exclusion due to gender, age, cultural background, sexual orientation, financial vulnerability, or disability
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Community Capacity Building: Support projects that develop skills, knowledge sharing, and opportunities for children, youth, families, older adults, and diverse community members
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Environmental Sustainability: Encourage projects that focus on recycling, repurposing, sustainable gardening, and improvements in energy and water efficiency
Types of Projects Funded
The CIGP supports a wide range of initiatives, including:
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Equipment Purchases: Sports, administrative, or accessibility equipment
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Community Development Programs: Activities that increase participation and engagement
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Knowledge-Sharing Initiatives: Workshops, training sessions, websites, and educational programs
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Community and Cultural Events: Accessible events that engage diverse groups
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Arts Activities: Performances, workshops, and creative programs
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Wellbeing Programs: Initiatives supporting physical and mental health
Funding Categories and Requirements
Funding Tiers:
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Under $2,000 – small-scale projects
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$2,000–$10,000 – medium-scale projects
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Over $10,000 – large projects, maximum grant $20,000 per organisation per year
Key Requirements for Large Projects:
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Matched Cash Contribution: 2:1 ratio required for projects over $10,000
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Payment Schedule: 50% on signing agreement, remaining 50% after satisfactory acquittal report submission
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify, applicants must:
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Be an incorporated not-for-profit organisation or an unincorporated group with an incorporated auspice arrangement
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Hold public liability insurance of $20 million
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Conduct the project within Ballarat, or in partnership with a local organisation if based elsewhere
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Have fully acquitted any previous City of Ballarat grants
Eligible Applicants Include:
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Local incorporated not-for-profit organisations, groups, or associations
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Unincorporated groups with an incorporated auspice
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Organisations outside Ballarat partnered with a local organisation, providing a support letter
How to Apply
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Confirm Eligibility
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Ensure your organisation or group meets incorporation, insurance, and local partnership requirements
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Develop Project Proposal
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Align your project with one or more funding priorities
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Include clear objectives, outcomes, and a budget
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Submit Application
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Follow the City of Ballarat’s application guidelines and deadlines
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Include all supporting documents, such as insurance, auspice agreements, and matched funding confirmation
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Grant Assessment and Award
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Applications are assessed based on community impact, innovation, inclusivity, sustainability, and alignment with funding priorities
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Successful applicants will receive grant agreements outlining payment schedules and reporting requirements
Expected Outcomes
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Stronger community connections and participation
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Enhanced skills and capacity across diverse community groups
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Improved environmental sustainability practices
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Inclusive projects benefiting underrepresented or vulnerable populations
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Measurable improvements in wellbeing, culture, and local engagement
Common Tips for Applicants
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Clearly demonstrate community need and potential impact
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Show how your project addresses inclusivity and sustainability priorities
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Include a realistic budget and achievable outcomes
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Ensure partnerships or auspices are documented
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Submit complete and accurate supporting documents
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who can apply for the CIGP?
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Incorporated not-for-profit organisations
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Unincorporated groups with an incorporated auspice
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Organisations outside Ballarat partnered with a local organisation
2. What funding amounts are available?
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Under $2,000, $2,000–$10,000, and over $10,000, with a maximum of $20,000 per organisation per year
3. Are matched contributions required?
Yes, projects over $10,000 require a 2:1 matched cash contribution
4. Where must projects take place?
Projects should occur within Ballarat or in partnership with a local organisation if based elsewhere
5. Can previous grant recipients apply?
Yes, but applicants must have fully acquitted any previous City of Ballarat grants
6. What types of projects are funded?
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Community programs, equipment, arts and cultural events, wellbeing initiatives, sustainability projects, and knowledge-sharing initiatives
7. Is public liability insurance required?
Yes, all applicants must hold $20 million in public liability insurance
Conclusion
The Community Impact Grant Program (CIGP) empowers Ballarat-based groups and organisations to deliver projects that enhance community capacity, foster social connections, and promote environmental sustainability. By funding innovative, inclusive, and collaborative initiatives, the City of Ballarat strengthens local engagement, wellbeing, and a sustainable future for all residents.
For more information, visit City of Ballarat.