Small Grants

If you require only a small amount of funding, you may wish to consider applying for a small grant.

Small Grants are designed for applicants seeking a smaller amount of funding to deliver a defined project. 

Grants of up to $4,000 are available across all seven funding streams. 

Our small grant program will open on Thursday 1 October 2026. 

Applications are assessed on a rolling basis, with outcomes typically advised within two months of submission, although timeframes may be longer during peak periods.

If you require assistance in submitting an application for a small grant, please contact us after 1 October 2026. 

Our Small Grants do not have a set application close date. They will stay open until their individual stream funding pools have been allocated. Each stream has an allocated funding pool, and some streams will be exhausted before others. 

There are seven funding streams:

• First Peoples Partnerships
• Healthy Communities
• Local Economy
• Creative City
• Environment, Conservation and Climate
• Safe Neighbourhoods
• Connecting Yarra (new, for small grants only)

We have a new stream, called Connecting Yarra.  They are small grants only, up to $4,000.

The Connecting Yarra stream supports small, community-led groups to meet regularly for ongoing group activities such as shared meals, music, games, conversation groups, informal learning activities, information sessions, gentle exercise programs or outings.

These activities provide simple, low-barrier ways for people to come together, build relationships and reduce loneliness, particularly for people who may experience social isolation or barriers to participation.

Groups must meet on a regular and ongoing basis, such as weekly, fortnightly or monthly, and provide consistent opportunities for people to connect in a welcoming and inclusive environment.

Activities may also include informal recreational, learning, or support activities, where the primary purpose is participation, social connection, and belonging rather than structured training, formal education, competition, or skill development.

See the 2027 Yarra Community Grant Guidelines for further information, eligibility criteria and stream objectives.