Community Grants

Application Guidelines

COMMUNITY INVESTMENT GRANTS

BNDCE is committed to supporting
the local community through small community investment grants. These
grants are made possible through the support of BNDCE partners and the
commission earned from the business of every BNDCE supporter.

HOW TO APPLY FOR A COMMUNITY INVESTMENT GRANT

  1. Complete the Application Form: Any group wishing to apply for a community investment grant must complete the application
    form     available on the BNDCE website.
  2. Follow the Guidelines: Ensure your application follows the provided guidelines to improve your chances of being considered for funding.

KEY INFORMATION:

  • BNDCE is volunteer-run, and the income generated from
    supporter businesses is reinvested into the community through grants.
  • The grants are designed to support local community groups
    and initiatives.

APPLICATION GUIDELINES FOR COMMUNITY INVESTMENT GRANTS

Please note that the following guidelines
are intended to serve as a general guide. Each round of community investment
grants may vary based on certain factors, including:

  1. Current BNDCE Income: The amount of available funding
    depends on the current financial situation of BNDCE, which is influenced
    by its income from supporters and partners.
  2. Number of Groups Applying for Grants: The number of
    applications BNDCE receives in any given may impact the overall funding
    available.
  3. Yearly Allocated Funding Exceeded: If the allocated
    funding for the year has already been surpassed, this may affect the
    availability of grants for new applicants.

WHO CAN APPLY FOR COMMUNITY INVESTMENT GRANTS?

  • Eligible Applicants: Only not-for-profit community organisations are eligible to apply. 
  • Individuals are not eligible.

IMPORTANT NOTES:

  1. Formal Notification: All applicants will receive formal notification regarding the outcome of their application.
  2. Application Period: No applications will be considered or accepted from 1st December to 31st January each year. Be sure to apply within the designated application period.
 
 
 
 
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Application Criteria

APPLICATION CRITERIA FOR COMMUNITY INVESTMENT GRANTS

To apply for a Community Investment Grant through BNDCE, applicants must meet the following criteria:

  1. Community Benefit: The application must demonstrate how the project or initiative will benefit the wider Bendigo Northern
    District communities    .
  2. Committee Presentation: Applicants are required to present their application at a committee meeting as part of the evaluation process.
  3. Final Decision: The BNDCE’s decision will be final, and no further discussion will be entered into after the decision.
  4. Grant Presentation: Successful applicants must attend the BNDCE Presentation Grants Night to receive their grant.
  5. Post-Grant Reporting: All applicants must provide a report or documentary evidence (including high-resolution digital photos) that shows the funds have been used as outlined in the application.
  6. Funding Limits:
    • The maximum grant amount is $2,000 per application.
    • If an application exceeds $2,000, it will be reviewed
      by the committee for further consideration.
  7. Large Purchases:
    • For large purchases, applicants are required to provide two quotes to ensure competitive pricing.
  8. Annual Application Limit:
    • Applicants can only apply once per calendar year unless a special dispensation is requested and approved.
  9. Marketing and Publicity:
    • BNDCE reserves the right to use photos and information
      from the grant in its own marketing and publicity campaigns.
    • BNDCE also reserves the right to co-brand or place appropriate signage on the funded items or projects, if applicable.

IMPORTANT CONSIDERATION:

  • Applicants should ensure their
    project benefits the broader community, follows the reporting and documentation requirements, and meets the funding limits and conditions. 
  • The application process involves a presentation and adherence to specific criteria, including the submission of two quotes for larger purchases.
  • Since funding availability can change, it Is crucial to know that guidelines might evolve depending on these factors.
  • Ensure that your application is submitted in accordance with
    the specific conditions and deadlines.

If you need help with the application process or have any questions, feel free to CONTACT US.