ANZ launches grant program

Applications are now open for the 2024 ANZ Seeds of Renewal program, offering grants of up to $15,000 for not-for-profit organizations and community groups in remote, rural, and regional Australia.

The program, in partnership with the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR), has funded over 850 community groups since 2003, with a total investment exceeding $6 million.

Focus areas for grants

In its 22nd year, the ANZ Seeds of Renewal program is providing a funding pool of $250,000 for projects that align with four key areas:

• Environmental sustainability: Initiatives that restore and conserve the natural environment or contribute to lower carbon emissions, water stewardship, and waste minimisation.
• Financial wellbeing: Initiatives that improve economic participation, particularly for under-represented and disadvantaged people, by building financial literacy, vocational skills, and providing access to meaningful work.
• Housing access: Programs that support those at risk of homelessness or provide housing support for people living with disabilities.
• Community thriving: Projects that enable vibrant, sustainable communities, fostering medium to long-term economic sustainability.

ANZ’s long-term commitment to rural communities

Mark Bennett, ANZ Head of Agribusiness, stressed the importance of the program.

“The ANZ Seeds of Renewal program has been providing grants to communities in rural and regional Australia for more than two decades, many of which find it difficult to access the resources they need to prosper,” Bennett said.

“The program is something we’re really proud of, and each year I look forward to seeing the diverse mix of applicants and projects.”

FRRR CEO Natalie Egleton highlighted the impact of the partnership.

“Partnerships, like our long-running one with ANZ, are critical to enhancing the liveability and vibrancy of remote, rural and regional communities,” Egleton said.

“These grants allow local not-for-profits to get support for initiatives that address the local priorities that communities have identified. I look forward to seeing what projects come through this year.”

Previous year’s success

Last year, ANZ and FRRR funded 20 community groups for various projects, including rainforest regeneration, indigenous plant restoration, enhancing local housing and employment opportunities, and improving financial literacy against digital fraud.

Application details for the 2024 Seeds of Renewal Program

Applications for the 2024 Seeds of Renewal program close at 5 pm (AEST) on Aug. 1.

Interested community groups can join a grantseeker webinar on Tuesday, July 9 at 12.30 pm AEST. Register online at: https://events.humanitix.com/anz-seeds-of-renewal-grantseeker-workshop

Read the ANZ media release.

Get the hottest and freshest mortgage news delivered right into your inbox. Subscribe now to our FREE daily newsletter.