Don’t miss this opportunity to reinvigorate your regions. Now is the time to start finalising applications for the State Government’s first round of the Regional Growth Fund, which closes on 31 August.

The Regional Growth Fund is a $15 million per annum commitment to help unlock new economic activity in our regions.

Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development Tim Whetstone today reminded regional communities that while the deadline for applications is approaching, there is still time to discuss and finalise project submissions for the available funding.

“Applicants have until the end of August to submit their applications for the $5 million competitive round of funding through the Regional Growth Fund,” said Minister Whetstone.

“It’s important to now start turning conversations into action to ensure submissions are the best they can be to be considered for RGF support.

“The Regional Growth Fund’s purpose is to facilitate new economic activity and build and strengthen communities for regional South Australia.

“Without doubt, people are already thinking outside the square and showing innovation – and that’s exactly what the State Government wants to capture through the Fund.

“PIRSA’s regional coordinators have been busy engaging in conversation with interested parties including industry bodies, local government and potential business clusters.

“The coordinators are a valuable resource for potential applicants and I encourage anyone who’s interested in the Fund to contact their local regional coordinator.

“We are particularly interested in hearing from business clusters who have come together on a project for their region or industry, as combining forces with a common goal has potential for broader economic benefits.” 

Applicants can seek grants from $50,000 up to $2 million, on a matched dollar for dollar basis.

In addition to the $5 million competitive round of funding in the Regional Growth Fund, $10 million in the Fund will remain open all year-round to applications for strategic projects with a focus on leveraging other sources of funding, such as from the Federal Government.

Applications for the 2018-19 competitive round opened on Monday 2 July and will close on Friday 31 August 2018. Guidelines and application details are available at www.pir.sa.gov.au/regionalgrowthfund