With the current Major Grant round closing on August 25, there's still time to apply for Sunshine Coast Council's Major Grants funding.
A four-time successful grant recipient offers advice for aspiring applicants.
Major Grants support projects that enrich our region through community development, cultural celebration, sport, and environmental initiatives.
One inspiring example of a successful Major Grant applicant is the Sunshine Coast Chinese Association (SCCA), whose vibrant Multicultural Moon Festival has become a highlight on the local events calendar.
Founded in September 2019, SCCA is a volunteer-run association based on the Sunshine Coast. They are a committee of 14 members with an extensive online community, spanning hundreds to over a thousand participants, that work to promote Chinese culture and foster multicultural harmony.
SCCA has been a four-time successful Major Grants applicant, using Council funding to help grow the Multicultural Moon Festival from 2,000 attendees in 2022 to a spectacular celebration attracting 10,000 people in 2024.
SCCA President Charlie Murong said the funding had enabled the group to hire professional performers, suppliers, and event crew, that helped to elevate the festival's scale and reputation year after year.
"Multicultural events like the Moon Festival showcase the Sunshine Coast's diversity and vibrancy," Mr Murong said.
"They attract locals and tourists who celebrate the region's cultural landscape and diverse heritage."
Advice for aspiring applicants
As a four-time successful applicant, Mr Murong said that applying for grants could be a challenging process - especially when juggling numerous stakeholder concerns - but persistence and clear communication were key.
"Even when facing opposition, stay focused on the positive outcomes your event can bring," Mr Murong said.
"I encourage other community groups to:
- Review your application with professionals to ensure clarity and impact
- Design events with safety, inclusion, and community benefit in mind
- Engage with local stakeholders and build collaborative relationships
- Speak with Council funding officers to better understand the grant criteria
- Break long-term goals into achievable stages."
Find the right fit
Applicants can apply for up to $15,000 in all program categories with up to $30,000 available for infrastructure projects in the Community Facilities category. Co-funding contribution is required for amounts over $7,500.
Major Grant applications can be submitted in one of six categories:
- Community Development
- Community Facilities
- Creative Development
- Cultural Heritage
- Economic Development
- Sport and Recreation.
Stay in the know
To receive information about grants and funding opportunities, and for details of Council's free Grant Writing Workshops or Webinars, head to Council's website and search "Grants."
