2025/26 - Small Business
The 2025/26 Grants for the Community Program allocates small grants to not for profit community and sporting organisations, individuals, small businesses, social enterprises and performing arts organisations in the Willoughby Local Government Area (LGA).
The maximum amount that will be granted is $10,000 (excl. GST) and the minimum is $500 (excl. GST).
The Grants for the Community Program is open on a quarterly basis each year.
The funding pool is renewed on 1 July each year.
Alignment with Strategic Priorities:
To be considered, projects should align with the economic development priorities outlined in the Council’s Community Strategic Plan (CSP), Our Future Willoughby 2032.
Key priorities include:
• Facilitating the development of all businesses: Projects that support the growth and success of local businesses.
• Building and supporting a night-time economy: Initiatives that enhance the vibrancy and economic activity during evening hours.
• Creating memorable food destinations: Efforts to develop or promote unique and attractive food experiences in the area.
• Attracting visitors and promoting local, destination-based tourism: Projects that draw visitors and enhance local tourism.
• Diversify our economy including creative and innovative industries: Encouraging growth in creative and innovative industries.
• Facilitate the viability and vibrancy of our village centres: Projects that enhance the economic and social vitality of local business districts.
Projects that align with these priorities and demonstrate clear benefits to the community and local economy will be highly considered. Please ensure your proposal clearly addresses these guidelines to maximize your chances of success.
Examples of Eligible Projects:
• Innovative projects that have a direct positive impact on the local economy.
• Initiatives that promote local economic activity and employment.
• Development of new products or services with commercial potential.
• Efforts to establish e-commerce platforms or other digital business strategies.
• Projects that showcase Willoughby LGA as a culturally diverse and dynamic area.
• Projects that enhance the skills of business owners and promote economic sustainability.
• Initiatives that promote unique local food experiences and attract tourism.