Applications for round one of the newly established Baw Baw Shire Arts and Culture fund are now open.
Dedicated to supporting local creatives, the fund offers financial assistance of up to $2000 for individuals and groups who reside or have their creative practice based in Baw Baw Shire.
Established after a successful budget bid by the Baw Baw Arts and Culture Advisory Committee in May 2024, the trial-year initiative aims to support the creative community by providing small but impactful financial boosts.
With a long term vision of creating a "connected and culturally enriched community," council is committed to ensuring creativity continues to flourish throughout the region. The fund is designed to provide support for local creatives, helping them expand their practice, share their work with the community, and collaborate on meaningful projects.
Creatives can apply for grants of up to $2000 once per 12 month funding year which includes round one and two. Only one submission per project is allowed each year.
Eligible applicants are encouraged to submit proposals that achieve one or more of the following objectives: contribute to the growth of creative projects and the local creative community; help develop and strengthen the local arts scene; provide opportunities for the wider community to engage with and participate in the arts and; foster collaboration between local creatives, residents, and community groups.
Projects and programs eligible for funding include: events, projects, programs, and initiatives that align with the Baw Baw Shire Council's Creative Communities Strategy; costs associated with developing or delivering creative work, including venue hire, artist fees, materials, travel, and promotional expenses; study and professional development that directly benefits the creative work of Baw Baw based practitioners and; delivery of free or low-cost community workshops, performances, seminars, and other creative activities.
Round one applications must be submitted by 5pm on Monday November 11.
For more information about the Arts and Culture Fund or to submit an application, visit www.bawbawshire.vic.gov.au/Things-To-Do/Arts-and-Culture/Arts-and-Culture-Fund