The grants program is designed to empower local not-for-profit organisations and event managers to continue to make a difference and positive contribution within the local community.

To be eligible, a representative from interested groups must attend one of four information sessions being in Port Macquarie, Laurieton and Wauchope.

These one-hour sessions will be hosted by council, and are designed to assist in the completion of an application, improving the chances of success in receiving a grant.

Over the last seven years the grants program has funded 290 projects in the Port Macquarie-Hastings region and council is looking forward to building upon this figure with $120,000 available during this round.

“Each year council relishes the opportunity to provide much needed funds to local not-for-profit organisations who are delivering great initiatives within our community,” said director Jeffery Sharp.

“The steps that are currently under construction at Mrs York’s Garden in Port Macquarie are a great example of how the grants program can make a real difference in celebrating and enriching our community lifestyle,” Mr Sharp said.

There are six categories open for funding and include, Christmas and New Year’s Event Grants, General Community Grants, Environmental Grants, Non-Council Owned Hall Grants, Place Making Grants and Community Band Grants.

Organisers of initiatives and events that celebrate our regions bicentenary in 2018 are also encouraged to apply.

This year council’s Event Sponsorship Program will be included as part of the upcoming information sessions and has been set up to provide funding for events that attract (or have the potential to attract) a significant number of visitors to our region.

Past events that have received funding under this program include the Beach to Brother Running Festival, Ekam Yoga Festival, and the Blues and BBQ Festival all of which are taking place this September.

The Grant Information Sessions will take place as follows:

Port Macquarie: Monday, July 31 - 5pm to 6pm and Friday August 4 - 12pm to 1pm at Port Macquarie-Hastings Council.

Laurieton: Tuesday, August 1 - 12pm to 1pm at Laurieton United Ex-Services Club.​