ANZ has opened applications for its 2026 Seeds of Renewal program, committing $250,000 in funding to help strengthen and sustain remote, rural and regional communities across Australia. Grants of up to $15,000 are available for eligible not-for-profit and community organisations.
Delivered in partnership with FRRR (Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal), the program is marking its 24th year in 2026 and continues to back grassroots initiatives that respond to local challenges and unlock long-term community benefit.
Since its inception in 2002, the program has provided more than $7 million in funding to over 935 community-led projects. Last year, $250,000 in grants were awarded to community groups across the country, supporting organisations ranging from wildlife sanctuaries to crisis accomodation centres.
This year, funding will focus on four key priority areas:
Financial wellbeing: initiatives that improve economic participation, particularly for under-represented and disadvantaged people in the community. For example, building financial literacy and vocational skills and providing access to meaningful work.
Housing access: initiatives and programs that support those experiencing, or at risk of, homelessness, or that provide housing support for people living with disability.
Environmental sustainability: initiatives that restore and conserve the natural environment or contribute to lower carbon emissions, water stewardship and waste minimisation.
Assisting local communities to thrive: projects that either enable vibrant communities, where everyone can participate and build a better life, or create sustainable communities that help deliver demonstrable medium to long-term economic sustainability.
Bogan Gate Recreation Reserve Board Member, James Buchanan, said its Bushfire Landscaping Project, which received funding last year, demonstrates why funding is vital for locally led initiatives.
"Seeds of Renewal funding has been a significant boost to natural hazard resilience in our small, remote, rural community. Without a large population base to fund projects locally, this support has enabled the Recreation Reserve to demonstrate practical, household-level bushfire risk reduction strategies, while also enhancing the beauty of local properties," Mr Buchanan said.
ANZ Head of Agribusiness, Mark Bennett, said: "Community groups understand what their region needs most. Through this longstanding partnership with FRRR, we're able to support these organisations directly - ensuring they can deliver meaningful, place-based outcomes, and help their communities to adapt, grow and thrive."
FRRR Head of Granting, Jill Karena, said: "We're proud to partner with ANZ to support grassroots groups to address the priority issues that will enhance the sustainability and liveability of their communities. By backing them, we're helping to build strong, vibrant futures. We look forward to seeing what projects come forward this year."
Applications for the 2026 Seeds of Renewal program open on 1 July and close at 5pm (AEST), 30 July 2026.
A grantseeker webinar will be held from 12 - 1pm AEST on Monday 6 July 2026 . To register, visit the FRRR website or follow this link.
