Shortstack - a round up of news, views and opportunities

Funding for small producers

Applications are open for the state government’s Small Scale and Craft Program.

Grants of up to $15,000 are available for eligible organisations to expand into new markets, scale up their operations, adopt new technology or develop tourism offerings.

The program is already supporting many businesses, including gourmet pie producers, olive growers, sake distillers and alpaca farmers, with more than 300 businesses receiving grants so far.

For more information visit agriculture.vic.gov.au/smallscaleandcraftprogram

Creative funding

The Creative Ventures Program offers a stable two-year funding base to support the generation of new work, creative content and career opportunities.

Eligible entities can apply for up to $200,000. Focused on organisations with 10 or fewer full-time staff, the program is open to those working in creative industries including visual art and craft, theatre and performance, literature, music, screen, digital games, design and fashion.

Applications close July 21. For more information or to apply, visit creative.vic.gov.au/grants-and-support.

Grandmothers for Refugees Executive

Nominations are open for the Grandmothers for Refugees Executive.

The Executive Committee works with the Co-ordinating Committee to provide leadership to achieve the movement’s strategic objective and aims.

For more details, email info@grandmothersforrefugees.org. Nominations close 4pm, Friday July 15.

$250 power saving bonus

Victorians can claim a $250 bill busting bonus if they look for a better energy deal on Victoria’s Energy Compare website.

Anyone who has previously claimed the Power Saving Bonus will be able to claim the new payment.

If you don’t have access to a computer or the internet, call the Victorian Energy Compare helpline on 1800 000 832 or receive support from a community outreach partner.

The Power Saving Bonus is available for the next 12 months.

To apply and for more information go to: compare.energy.vic.gov.au