Are you a Bass Coast not-for-profit group or organisation with a long list of projects, but need support to make them happen?

Bass Coast Shire Council has more than $170,000 to allocate in Round 1 of its 2019 Community Grants Program this March and applications are now open.

An information session for all prospective applicants will be held on Thursday, February 21 from 5.15pm to 6.30pm. The session will be held at The Old Post Office on the corner of Watt Street and McBride Avenue in Wonthaggi.

The Community Grants Program helps not-for-profit organisations fund projects, activities and events, or purchase equipment.

Groups can apply for three different types of Grants. General Community Grants are for up to $5,000 for equipment or other activities. Festivals, Celebrations and Events Grants provide funding of up to $5,000 to help groups run events.

Minor Capital Works Grants provide funding up to $5,000 for small-scale recreation reserve or community infrastructure developments. Groups applying for a Minor Capital Works Grant must seek advice from Council before making an application.

Each Round, Council funds one Major Project. Major Project funding is for between $5,001 and $10,000. Major Project applications can be made under any of the grant categories, except the sub-category of equipment. Applicants must complete a project plan when applying for Major Project funding. They also need to seek advice from Council before making an application.

Applications for this Round close Friday, 8 March 2019. For more information and to discuss possible projects, phone Council's Community Grants and Projects Officer on 1300 BCOAST (226 278) or (03) 5671 2211.