Yarra City Council launched an exciting new grant program to help its business and retail precincts survive and thrive as we work toward a COVID-normal city.

The Precinct Recovery Grants provide up to $20,000 to eligible groups of businesses – or businesses
and community members – in Yarra to deliver projects that activate, promote and enhance its vibrant
and much-loved precincts.

Yarra Mayor Cr Misha Coleman said that Yarra’s businesses and sole traders were essential to the
city’s recovery from COVID-19.

“Our business and retail precincts are the lifeblood of Yarra’s economy, and we know how important
financial support is to getting them back on their feet after months of tough restrictions,” Mayor Coleman said.

Expressions of interest are currently open for round one of the $320,000 grants program, and close on Sunday 4 October at 5pm. After a round of informal interviews, successful applicants will be invited to submit a full application and proposal.

Cr Coleman said that Yarra was keen to support creative and innovative initiatives to boost its precincts
– from art installations, small markets and promotional campaigns, through to training opportunities and
new partnerships between local businesses.

“We want to hear your ideas on how we can activate, promote, beautify and future-proof Yarra’s
precincts for the months and years ahead, as we move into recovery,” Mayor Coleman said.

There are some projects that aren’t eligible for this round of funding. A second grants round will also open in late January
2021.

Yarra is also working on how to support businesses with additional tradeable space, particularly as
restrictions ease on outdoor dining and we head into warmer months. Guidelines and a simple
application process will be announced in the coming weeks.

Pearl Dy

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Pearl Dy is a community manager and journalist. She is passionate about business and development particularly involving digital economy, not-for-profits, charity and social entrepreneurship.

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