Local Businesses Shine in Business Facade Improvement Grants

Published on 16 September 2024

LOCAL BUSINESSES SHINE IN BUSINESS FAÇADE IMPROVEMENT GRANTS

Southern Grampians Shire Council is pleased to award $50,000 in funding via the Business Facade Improvement Program to local businesses at Wednesday’s September Council Meeting.

This initiative was designed to help businesses in the Southern Grampians Shire with street frontage to revitalise their façades and contribute to a more attractive and vibrant community.

Southern Grampians Shire Council CEO Tony Doyle said Council was overwhelmed by business interest in the program.

"The response to this new Council initiative has been overwhelming with 49 applications submitted, totalling over $125,000 in funding requests.

“After a competitive evaluation process, 21 projects were selected for funding, resulting in $50,022 being allocated to façade enhancements. These projects represent a total investment of $147,932 in local business improvements.

“While this is our first time running the program, we are confident it won't be the last.

“The enthusiasm from local businesses shows just how important these improvements are to creating a welcoming, vibrant Shire for residents and visitors alike.

“I would like to thank everyone who applied for the program and look forward to seeing the improvements made to those successful business grant recipients,” concluded Mr Doyle.

The program, open to all eligible businesses across the Shire, offered up to $3,000 in grants for businesses to make impactful improvements.

Eligible works included painting, cleaning, signage upgrades, repairs, and other minor renovations aimed at giving storefronts a fresh new look.

The vast majority of the works are expected to be completed by local tradespeople, multiplying the value to the local economy.

For more information on business support and opportunities, contact Council on 5573 0444.

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