Georges River Council will support small local businesses with $40,000 in grant funds to boost its local economy and stimulate a vibrant nightlife.
Local businesses can apply now for a 'Rewrite the Night' grant that can be used to activate their business at night. Grant categories include live music, arts, performance and lighting.
Council adopted the Georges River Night Time Economy Study in March to encourage activity and usage of centres and facilities after hours.
Mayor of Georges River Council, Mr Kevin Greene, welcomed the announcement of the 'Rewrite the Night' grants and encouraged local businesses to apply.
"These grants will encourage businesses to setup creative lighting or hire a live performance to creatively launch their business after hours, attracting customers and building a lively and buzzing Georges River area at night," Mr Greene said.
"By working with local creative groups, performers and artists, Georges River will be reimagined as a place of cultural expression and innovation with a vibrant and diverse nightlife.
"Eligible local businesses should put up their hand and apply as this opportunity will not only elevate their brand and business but also transform our community," Mr Greene said.
The Study highlights the importance of building on existing opportunities such as making it easier for a daytime business to trade later at night with a different offering. This could be a florist by day leasing its site for an art exhibition at night or a coffee shop by day operating as a small bar by night.
The Study aligns itself with the NSW Government's 24-Hour Economy Strategy released in September 2020 to revamp Greater Sydney and help businesses and
jobs recover from the impacts of COVID-19.
The Sydney 24 Hour Economy Commissioner, Mr Michael Rodrigues said now is the perfect opportunity to embrace a night time economy.
"The NSW Government 24 Hour Economy Strategy contemplates districts across Sydney that tell the many different stories of the communities that span our metropolitan city.
There are so many gems in our backyard and with international travel still limited, now is a great time to uncover these jewels, shine them up and get domestic audiences in. When borders reopen, we can show them off to the world.
It's great to see Georges River Council embracing the opportunities that the night time economy presents, and encouraging their local businesses and community to get involved."
Council hopes to establish Georges River to be on par with other successful global cities that have taken advantage of a lively and diverse night time economy.
To apply for a 'Rewrite the Night' Grant or for eligibility information, visit georgesriver.smartygrants.com.au/rewritethenight2021
Grant applications are open until Sunday 6 June.
