Released 27/11/2024
The ACT Social Enterprise Grant Program is now open for applications. The program supports new social enterprises to start up, and helps existing social enterprises to take the next step in their business journey.
The first round of the grant program was successfully piloted in 2023-24 financial resulting in the ACT Government awarding $340,000 to 14 social enterprises across Canberra.
Social enterprises are businesses with a social, cultural or environmental purpose aligned with public or community benefit.
In the ACT there are approximately 180 social enterprises supporting over 3,000 jobs and contributing $318.5 million to the local economy.
The Mill House Ventures, a Canberra social enterprise advisory, delivers the grant program on behalf of the ACT Government.
“The grants offer between $10,000 to $30,000 in matched funding for a range of activities. This includes product development, business planning, training programs, marketing activities, resources and website development or upgrades,” said Minister for Business, Arts and Creative Industries Michael Pettersson.
“One of Canberra’s social enterprises making use of this grant funding is RecycleAbilities, who received $29,000 in matched funding earlier this year.
“Their story illustrates the importance of social enterprises to our community and howthis grant program can make a real difference."
RecycleAbilities is a social enterprise founded by Corinna to support her son Ryan who lives with disability. It has given Ryan socially valued employment that allows him to showcase his abilities.
Through RecycleAbilities, Ryan helps local businesses and individuals reduce waste by collecting their 10c containers.
He works with over 50 businesses in north Canberra and Fyshwick and has raised over $20,000 for local and national charities.
Applications for the ACT Social Enterprise Grants Program are now open and close 7 February 2025.
For more information go to: www.act.gov.au/money-and-tax/grants-funding-and-incentives/funding-and-support-for-social-enterprises
Quotes attributable to Craig Fairweather, CEO at The Mill House Ventures:
“The Mill House Ventures is proud to have delivered a successful pilot year of the Social Enterprise Grant Program for the ACT Government.
"We’re looking forward to supporting more ambitious and talented social entrepreneurs as part of this year’s grant program.
"Funding for this important business section allows social enterprises to expand their operations, create more impact and reach more people. Creating a positive impact on the community and economy, as we’ve seen with RecycleAbilities and the other 2023-2024 grant recipients."
Quotes attributable to Corinna Gilligan, Founder of RecycleAbilities:
"By focusing on customised employment based around interests, skills and abilities, like we have for Ryan, I believe you can increase employment success for people with disability.
"We can also improve employment longevity and demonstrate their social value as contributing members of society.
"I believe Ryan will lead a balanced, purposeful, and fulfilling life. One where he is an included and a contributing and valued member of his local Canberra community.”
- Statement ends -
Michael Pettersson, MLA | Media Releases