City opens record $1 million grants and sponsorships round

Community and sporting groups, businesses, tourism and event operators are invited to apply for almost $1 million of community grants and sponsorship funding from City of Newcastle.

Applications are open for projects and initiatives to activate public places, enhance community wellbeing and strengthen the city’s reputation as a tourism, business and events destination.

The announcement follows Council’s endorsement of new Community Grants and Sponsorships policies, redesigned to make applying easier following consultation with the community.

Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said the new streamlined process would encourage more community-led projects.

“Our grants and sponsorships are a vital community-building tool. They enhance wellbeing, improve the city's identity and make Newcastle a better place in which to live, work, play and invest,” Cr Nelmes said.

“City of Newcastle invests in a range of initiatives across the city each year, from placemaking improvements to the suburban landscape to major events attracting visitors from far and wide.”

Deputy Lord Mayor Declan Clausen, who is Chair of the City of Newcastle Strategy and Innovation Advisory Committee, said that feedback from the community was that the process of applying for support could be more difficult than it should be, discouraging some groups from putting forward new ideas to make our community better.

“The great news is that we’ve listened and redesigned the process to give our community groups the opportunity to turn amazing ideas into great local projects and initiatives,” Cr Clausen said.

“New clearer grant categories include funding for recreation facilities, businesses façade improvements, community initiatives, arts, culture and heritage, as well as environmental and social inclusion projects.

“Events are a great way to attract visitors with City of Newcastle providing sponsorship for initiatives that help make Newcastle a smart, liveable and sustainable global city.”

Event sponsorship will be provided across four categories: General Events, Major Events, Regional Sport Events and Business Events, with additional funding will be offered through the Tourism / Visitor Economy Sponsorship and the Economic Sponsorship programs.

Funding opportunities open on 3 May and close 31 May 2021, with online community workshops outlining the application process and addressing questions to be held on Wednesday 12 May at 10am and Monday 17 May 2021 at 5.30pm. Further details can be viewed on our website at https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/community/grants-and-sponsorships.