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Beyond Bank expands its community grant program to find stand-out entrepreneurs running any type of business, at any stage

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Beyond Bank Australia has launched an expanded community grant program to support the next generation of local entrepreneurs.

The business is building on the success of prior programs, which have received over 800 applications and this year is offering additional funding and allowing community members to vote for those who make the shortlist.

Grants are available for new businesses and concepts as well as pre-and post-launch stages of existing projects to help take them to the next level. You can be running any type of business, at any stage, preference is given to applicants that create positive outcomes to benefit the local community by offering employment opportunities and positive social outcomes in Canberra, Hunter Valley, Riverina, Perth, Adelaide and Northern regional areas of South Australia.

What do you have to gain from this program?

Successful applicants will receive grants of up to $50,000 to kick-start their business and are not required to partake in any formal training.

In addition to funding, founders will be connected to Australia’s leading corporate accelerator Slingshot, who help businesses gain the traction and scale they need to be successful. Slingshot will also assist in the shortlisting of applications.

Those who make the application shortlist can gain valuable exposure for their business and help build credibility in their local community.

Beyond Bank Community Grant alumni include successful businesses Coolamon Cheese CompanyMajoranAnti GrabbityHiveUAV and Leaf Autism Services.

Beyond Bank Australia has released a total of $250,000 through its unique Community Entrepreneur Program which aims to identify and support emerging innovators around the nation.

Interested entrepreneurs are invited to apply online where they will be asked to outline the key components of the business plan, show an understanding of the local market and a pathway towards meeting future targets.

Applications for the grant are now open with voting in September and October ahead of the announcement of successful recipients in November.

What is the aim of the Community Entrepreneur Program?

Beyond Bank’s General Manager, Community Development, Peter Rutter said, “For many local businesses and budding Startups, the community grant is a great way to get access to the funds they need, without any strings attached.”

“There are some great ideas out there and for those looking to turn that idea into reality $50,000 can go a very long way.”

“We’ve been running the Programme for two years now and have uncovered some amazing talent. This year we have decided to expand it even further with more money and an opportunity for the public to get involved by voting for those who make it on to the national shortlist.”

CEO of Slingshot, Karen Lawson said, “We recognise the power that corporates have to influence an eco-system. It’s fantastic to see Beyond Bank take the lead and inspire a new generation of founders to make their business ideas a reality.

“Whilst there is support in the larger metropolitan cities for Startups, access to funding and resources in areas such as Canberra, Hunter Valley, Riverina, Adelaide, South Australia’s Spencer Gulf region and Perth, need more support. We are delighted to be involved in such a fantastic initiative to drive innovation which will have a meaningful different to so many people in these communities.”