Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Whitsunday community groups and not-for-profits can now apply for grants of up to $5,000 through the new Whitsundays Chamber Community Fund.
Launched by the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Fund creates a new way for money generated through Chamber activities and local business support to be reinvested into projects benefiting the community.
The funding pool will include a share of stallholder fees from the Airlie Beach Cruise Ship Markets and Proserpine Community Markets, alongside donations, sponsorships and proceeds raised through Chamber events.
Chamber President Allan Milostic said the Fund recognised the important contribution made by volunteers, community groups and small organisations across the region.
“Some of the things that make the Whitsundays such a great place to live, work and visit aren’t run by business at all—they’re run by volunteers, community groups and small organisations working with tight budgets and a lot of goodwill,” Allan said.
“The Chamber’s role is to support business and strengthen our local economy, but a strong economy is only part of the picture.
“This Fund is about closing that loop—taking money generated locally and putting it back into local causes.”
Funding will be offered across three categories:
Applicants do not need to be Chamber members. Submissions will be assessed against published criteria, including community benefit, financial need, value for money, alignment with the Fund’s purpose and the organisation’s ability to deliver.
Chamber Portfolio Manager Cait Fleming said transparency would be central to the program, with applications independently scored by the Chamber Board.
“We want organisations to know there is a fair and transparent process, and businesses and market stallholders who contribute can have confidence their money is being put back into the community,” Cait said.
The Fund also provides local businesses with a straightforward way to support community causes through donations, sponsorships and fundraising.
“Many local businesses want to help but don’t necessarily have the capacity to identify organisations or manage grants,” Cait said.
“The Fund provides a simple way to contribute, while allowing community organisations to put forward the projects they know will make a difference.”
Round 1 opens Monday 13th September and closes at 11.59pm on Sunday 18th October, with outcomes announced by 30th November.
Applications can be submitted at www.whitsundaycoastchamber.com.au. Questions can be directed to portfolios@whitsundaycoastchamber.com.au.
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