A new Local Economic Development grant program designed to foster a healthy, sustainable small to medium business community, has been approved by Cockburn Council.
Grants of up to $5,000 are available in the 2020/21 financial year to help provide activities, services and initiatives to support continued economic development in Cockburn.
City of Cockburn Business Engagement Officer Sarah Kahle said the grants would build on supports the City had already put in place for the local business community in the wake of the COVID-19 lockdown in March 2020.
Some of the application categories will enable businesses to support technology, online and e-commerce activities, upgrade or improve shopfronts and business facades, promote innovation, growth or start-ups, and access help to recover from the impacts of COVID-19.
“These grants will give local business, activity centres and industry the opportunity to both consolidate and thrive,” Ms Kahle said.
“It’s really about supporting locals to continue contributing to Cockburn’s vibrancy, sustainability, growth and employment prospects.
“These are all related, and help promote ongoing resilience, especially when hard times hit, as we have seen can happen without warning.”
The new funding program is part of the City’s annual grants, donations and sponsorship Cockburn Community Fund, which is funded by up to 2 per cent of its rates income.
The total value of the 2020/21 Cockburn Community Fund is $1.455 million, with about $58,000 available for the Local Economic Development grant program this financial year.
Applications will be assessed by the City’s Business Engagement Officer, and a recommendation put forward to Council for consideration.
Grant applications are open until 31 March and will operate on a rolling basis. Businesses are encouraged not to wait until the deadline to submit an application, and to
email if considering applying. The Business Engagement Officer will be available to discuss the program via phone.
Applications can be made online on the City’s
website, where there is also information about terms and conditions.