Winning grants

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Grants can be a fantastic way to fund specific projects, purchase equipment, improve facilities, or even support operational costs. But finding the right grant and writing a successful application takes a bit of planning and effort. Here’s a guide to get you started:

1. Finding Grant Opportunities:

Government Grant Finders: Federal, State (QLD), and Local Councils often have online portals listing available grants. (See links in the next post!).
Peak Sporting Bodies: Check with Croquet Queensland and Croquet Australia – they may advertise relevant grants or have their own funding programs.
Community Foundations: Look for local or regional foundations that support community groups.
Corporate Programs: Some larger companies offer community grants.
Newsletters & Networks: Subscribe to newsletters (like the QLD Sport & Rec 'State of Play') and network with other clubs – word of mouth can be valuable!

2. Are You "Grant Ready"?

Before you even find a grant, make sure your club is prepared:

Have a Plan: Know what you need funding for and why. Link it to your club's strategic plan if possible. (Funding bodies love well-planned projects!).
Know Your Club: Have key information handy (Incorporation details, ABN if applicable, financial statements, member numbers, club objectives).
Meet Eligibility Basics: Ensure your club structure (e.g., incorporated association) and activities generally align with typical grant requirements.
Resource: QLD Gov Guide: Be Grant Ready (PDF)

3. Understanding the Grant:

Once you find a potential grant:

Read the Guidelines CAREFULLY: What are the grant's objectives? Who is eligible? What activities will and won't they fund? What are the funding limits and timelines?
Check Eligibility: Double-check that your club and your specific project meet all the criteria. Don't waste time applying if you're not eligible!
Note the Deadline: Obvious, but crucial! Allow plenty of time.

4. Writing a Strong Application:

Answer the Questions: Address exactly what the application form asks for. Use clear and concise language.
Align with Grant Objectives: Clearly explain how your project helps achieve the grant provider's goals.
Demonstrate Need: Explain why this project is needed for your club and the community. Use stats or evidence if possible.
Show Capacity: Prove your club has the ability (people, planning, finances) to successfully deliver the project.
Budget Clearly: Provide a realistic and detailed budget for the project. Show any contributions your club is making (cash or in-kind).
Proofread! Get someone else to read it over before submitting. Typos look unprofessional.
Resource: QLD Gov Guide: Grant Writing (PDF)

5. Need Help Writing?

AI Grant Writing Assistant: Don't forget, we have an AI tool available in our Tools and AI Assistants section that can help you draft sections of your grant application!

Getting grants takes practice, but good planning makes a huge difference!

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Here are direct links to key QLD Government portals and finders where you can search for grant opportunities relevant to sport and recreation clubs:

QLD Government Grants Finder: Search for grants across all departments
Sport and Recreation Grant Registration Portal: Register here to apply for specific Sport and Recreation funding programs
Gambling Community Benefit Fund (GCBF): A major source of funding for QLD community groups (Check eligibility and funding rounds)

Need help writing your application?

AI Grant Writing Assistant: Check out the AI tool available in our Tools and AI Assistants section – it can help you draft your grant application!

Tip: Remember to also check your Local Council's website, as they often have community grant programs available!