Deadline: 30-Apr-2026
The QCoal Foundation Community Grant Program provides funding to support community-led projects that enhance the liveability, sustainability, and development of regional and remote Queensland communities. The program prioritizes partnerships, collaborative initiatives, and projects that address local needs in health, education, and community well-being. Community Spirit Grants of up to $2,000 are awarded quarterly for short-term or one-off projects that reflect local aspirations.
Overview of the QCoal Foundation Community Grant Program
The QCoal Foundation Community Grant Program is designed to empower regional and remote communities in Queensland through partnerships with local organizations. Its primary goal is to support projects that improve liveability and sustainability, address community-identified needs, enhance access to education and health services, and facilitate long-term, community-driven solutions. The program emphasizes simple and transparent processes, ensuring funding is accessible and directed toward initiatives that generate meaningful, lasting community benefits.
Program Objectives
The program’s objectives focus on sustainable growth and regional development:
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Foster productive partnerships between QCoal Foundation and local communities
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Deliver projects responding to identified local priorities
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Improve access to essential services such as healthcare and education
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Support initiatives that create pathways to employment and economic opportunities
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Encourage collaborative approaches that strengthen community cohesion
Grant Categories and Funding
The program offers Community Spirit Grants:
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Funding amount: Up to $2,000 per project
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Frequency: Awarded every four months — February, May, September
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Purpose: Support short-term or one-off projects that reflect community values and aspirations
Funding is intended for initiatives that respond to clearly identified local needs and align with program priorities, contributing to long-term community benefit.
Who is Eligible?
Eligible Applicants
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Not-for-profit organizations with Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) status
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Community groups engaged in regional or remote Queensland projects
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Partnerships with QCoal Foundation to deliver meaningful community impact
Ineligible Applicants
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Individuals
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Commercial enterprises
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Political, religious, or spiritual organizations if the project promotes beliefs
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Projects for loan repayment, contingency funding, or ineligible grant categories
Preference is given to DGR-status organizations, though other community groups may be referred to donor partners if appropriate.
Why the Program Matters
The QCoal Foundation Community Grant Program is vital because it strengthens local communities through collaborative projects, enhances liveability by addressing health, education, and community needs, promotes long-term sustainability of regional and remote areas, and supports initiatives that reflect the aspirations and priorities of local residents. By funding projects that respond to community-identified needs, the program ensures that benefits are relevant, valued, and sustainable.
How to Apply / How it Works
Step-by-Step Application Process
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Identify a community need or project aligned with program priorities
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Ensure eligibility, particularly DGR status if applicable
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Prepare a project proposal outlining objectives, expected community impact, project timeline, funding requirements, and collaboration plans with QCoal Foundation if relevant
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Submit the application before the quarterly deadline: February, May, or September
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Review and assessment by QCoal Foundation
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Receive funding allocation and implement the project
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Provide reporting or feedback on outcomes and community impact
Applicants are encouraged to design projects with clear, measurable outcomes and strong community engagement.
Common Application Tips and Mistakes
Tips
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Focus on short-term, impactful initiatives
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Clearly demonstrate community benefit and alignment with program priorities
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Highlight collaboration with local stakeholders
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Prepare accurate budget and project plans
Common Mistakes
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Applying as an individual or ineligible organization
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Submitting projects that promote religious, political, or commercial agendas
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Requesting funding for loan repayments, contingencies, or unrelated purposes
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Missing the quarterly application deadlines
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who can apply for funding?
Not-for-profit community groups with DGR status are preferred; other groups may be referred to donor partners.
How often are grants awarded?
Grants are awarded every four months: February, May, and September.
What is the maximum grant amount?
Community Spirit Grants provide up to $2,000 per project.
Can individuals apply for funding?
No, the program does not provide grants to individuals.
Are political or religious organizations eligible?
No, organizations promoting beliefs or political agendas are ineligible.
What types of projects are supported?
Short-term or one-off projects that reflect community aspirations and address local needs in health, education, or liveability.
How is project success measured?
Success is measured by community impact, alignment with local priorities, and achievement of project objectives.
Conclusion
The QCoal Foundation Community Grant Program plays a critical role in building sustainable, vibrant regional and remote communities in Queensland. By supporting collaborative, community-driven projects, the program enhances liveability, improves access to essential services, and strengthens long-term sustainability in ways that are valued by local residents.
For more information QCoal Foundation.