Applications have opened for ANZ's Seeds of Renewal program, offering grants up to $15,000 for not-for-profit organizations in rural areas. The initiative aims to support the prosperity of regional Australia.
Since its inception in 2003, the program has been administered by the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR) and has distributed over $5 million to more than 800 community groups. These funds have supported local projects that contribute to vibrant and sustainable rural communities.
In 2020, ANZ is allocating $250,000 for projects focusing on environmental sustainability, financial wellbeing, and housing access. Environmental initiatives may include efforts to restore natural environments or reduce carbon emissions. Financial wellbeing projects aim to assist under-represented and disadvantaged people by improving economic participation through financial literacy and vocational skills development. Housing access initiatives will support those at risk of homelessness or provide assistance for individuals living with disabilities.
Jenefer Stewart, ANZ General Manager Business Banking, stated: “The ANZ Seeds of Renewal program has supported hundreds of community-based grassroots programs and initiatives that have created new opportunities for regional communities. It is truly humbling to see the difference these grants are able to make in rural and regional Australia."
Last year’s grants were awarded to 25 community groups for diverse projects such as saving an endangered bee species on Kangaroo Island and supporting youth at risk of homelessness in Port Hedland, Western Australia. These initiatives shared $250,000 in cash along with $16,728 worth of IT equipment from Lenovo.
Natalie Egleton, FRRR CEO said: “Rural and regional communities play such a vital role in the prosperity of Australia. Yet they face far greater economic inequity and limited housing opportunities compared to those living in the city. Additionally, rural areas are also often at the forefront of environmental disasters like droughts and bushfires. The ANZ Seeds of Renewal program is a great opportunity to help address these challenges with locally-appropriate solutions."
Applications are open from July 14 until August 19, 2020. More information about applying can be found on FRRR's website.