Applications are open for Toowoomba Regional Council’s (TRC) latest round of community grants.

TRC Environment and Community Committee chair Cr Geoff McDonald said community and not-for-profit groups were welcome to apply for funding to help stage or conduct their activities or events. Applications must be lodged by March 1, 2018.

Cr McDonald said the current funding program covered applications for the Sport and Recreation, Event Support, Community Support, Environment, Community Economic Development, Cultural and Arts Support and Sports Tourism grants.

“This year Council is inviting interested people to attend information sessions at Toowoomba, Pittsworth and Goombungee to discuss any aspect of the grants program,” Cr McDonald said.

Session details:

Toowoomba: Tuesday, February 13, 4-5.30pm at meeting room 12 Little Street.

Pittsworth: Wednesday, February 14, 4-5.30pm at Pittsworth Service Centre.

Goombungee: Thursday, February 15, 4-5.30pm at Goombungee Service Centre.

“Representatives from the six grant programs will be available to answer queries about eligibility criteria, grant guidelines and to hand out application forms.

“Residents can call 131 872 to arrange a consultation with relevant staff at any other time before March 1 to arrange for help with tailoring grant proposals.

“This year applications for the Community Support, Environment, plus the Sport and Recreation grants will have to be completed online exclusively.”

The Community Economic Development Grants are capped at $5000 for each application, with a yearly limit of two grants per applicant.

These grants are offered to support Chambers of Commerce, Progress Associations and other not-for-profit groups who meet the selection criteria.

This funding is aimed at building the capacity of regional groups who are delivering specific programs to attract or boost employment or who are undertaking projects in their towns and districts.

Council envisages that these grants will support the implementation of the Toowoomba Region Economic Development Strategy and township economic development plans like the Community Growth Action Plans.

“Council appreciates the difficulty smaller groups face to find money for projects, services and facilities,” Cr McDonald said.

“Council is pleased to offer financial assistance to a diverse range of community and not-for-profit groups.

“Grants are one way Council can give groups a helping hand to build on the sweat, toil and goodwill of volunteers.

“Preference is given to applications that fulfil a range of criteria covering community inclusiveness and interaction, a willingness to encourage community partnerships, upgrading facilities or services or establishing a new service, facility or initiative.

“Different funding caps apply across various grant categories.”

Grant applications in each category are assessed by a panel including Councillors and TRC staff from the relevant area.

The competitive review process means that not all projects can always be fully funded.

The current grant round is expected to be presented for approval by Council at its April meetings.

More information about each grant category can be viewed at www.tr.qld.gov.au/grants