Local Impact Business Grants
Council has launched a new grant program to support local businesses, business groups, farmer networks and community organisations working with business.
These grants fund small, practical projects that create lasting improvements for local businesses and help build a stronger, fairer and more sustainable economy across Mount Alexander Shire.
Grants of up to $5,000 are available for projects delivered between February and June 2026.
NOTE: On account of the recent fire event in our shire, we have extended the closing date of submissions by two weeks to 1 February 2026.
Projects must address at least one of the following Wellbeing Impact areas:
- Community Wealth Building – keeping skills, jobs and value local
- Inclusion and Equity – making it easier for more people to take part in business life
- Health and Wellbeing – supporting connection, safety and wellbeing
- Environment and Country – reducing environmental harm and caring for Country
- Place and Infrastructure – strengthening local precincts and shared spaces
Projects must be delivered in, and for the benefit of, Mount Alexander Shire.
Who can apply?
- Individual businesses
- Groups of businesses working together
- Business associations, trader groups or precinct collectives
- Farmer or producer networks
- Community organisations working in direct partnership with businesses
Find our more by watching the video below.
What kinds of projects will be supported?
We fund practical, business-led ideas that:
- strengthen local skills, systems or tools
- improve inclusion and accessibility
- support collaboration between businesses
- reduce waste or environmental impact
- make our towns and business areas more welcoming
- create business improvements that continue after the grant ends.
Find our more by watching the video below.
Examples of the types of ideas that may be suitable
These are only examples - we encourage applicants to shape projects that fit local needs.
- Joint workshops or training for retailers, farmers or business networks
- Inclusive business practices or accessibility improvements
- Shared marketing or local procurement initiatives
- Waste-reduction, composting or reuse pilots
- Small collaborations that make a business area more welcoming
- Business-led activities that support connection, youth participation or community wellbeing
How to apply
Application will be made through the Smarty Grants platform. Applications are open until 11.59pm on 1 February 2026.
Apply now
Find out how to apply in the below video.