Group: 1st Dubbo
Project: Upgrades to Hall
Grant: CBPG
1st Dubbo has had a string of successes that enabled them to upgrade some of their infrastructure.
Having a dedicated grants person, in 1st Dubbo’s case someone from the Parent Committee, and someone from the Group managing the actual project has proven to be a successful formula. This is a good way to make sure that funds raised through fundraising can be dedicated to Youth activities whilst grants money can go to the maintenance of the property.
Here are some incredibly helpful tips from Vaughn:
- Group Council meetings are essential to determining the future of your Group in the eye of the Leaders and what Leaders need to perform their role.
- Once you have created a wish list, assign tasks (who obtains the quotes, etc) and make use of the skillset in your Group.
- If you get 3 quotes use the highest quote for your grant application, and always consider how you would cover any potential shortfall.
- With quotes for equipment: make sure they are delivered to your door at that price and have a return policy.
- Don’t be shy to ask! Most people and businesses are willing to help. You only have to ask!
- There are a lot of places to find grant opportunities, these include:
- Regional Development Australia – Northern Inland NSW Grants and Funding Opportunities
- Grants for Non-Profit Organisations – Grants Assist (australiangrants.org)
- Support for organisations – NCOSS – NSW Council of Social Service
- Good2give- Grants Management
- Grants | Community Grants Hub
- ClubGRANTS
- Current Grant Opportunity List – GrantConnect (grants.gov.au)
- When applying for a grant, start early (offline), be creative and precise. Always get someone to proof read the application for you before submitting everything through the system online.
- Once submitted, be patient. It can easily take up to 4 months until you hear back, most likely via email.
- The funding deed outlines all the do’s and don’t for your project. It important to keep track of all your receipts, all the relevant paperwork and don’t forget to take these BEFORE photos that are required as part of the acquittal process.