Small Grant Pilot Scheme
We’re excited to launch a one‑off pilot round of our Small Grant Scheme. This small trial will help us understand what works best for our Makers Space community before we open the scheme more broadly.

We intend the application process to be simple as we want this to feel accessible to everyone in our community. This pilot will help us:
  • test the application process
  • ​understand the types of ideas our community is excited about
  • refine the scheme before the full launch​ ​
​Supporting Creative Ideas from Our Makers Space Community
​The Colac Makers Space Member Micro Grants program helps members bring small creative ideas to life. You do not need grant-writing experience to apply.

We’ve designed this program to be:
  • simple
  • friendly
  • low-stress
  • easy to apply for
We’re interested in creative ideas that are imaginative, achievable, community-connected and joyful to take part in.

What kinds of projects can apply?
We support small creative projects such as:
  • creative experiments
  • making sessions or workshops
  • collaborative ideas
  • community creative activities
  • small exhibitions or installations
  • skill-sharing projects
  • creative events or gatherings
Your idea does not need to be perfect or highly polished. We simply want to understand:
  • what you want to do
  • why you want to do it
  • how it might happen

Funding available
  • Individuals: up to $100
  • Groups or collaborations: up to $500

What we look for?
Applications are assessed using four simple criteria.
Creativity - Is the idea imaginative, engaging or interesting?
Community connection - Does it encourage participation, connection or shared experience?
Achievability - Can it realistically happen with the time and funding available?
Inclusivity and joy - Does it feel welcoming, positive and accessible to others?

What should I put in my application?
Keep it simple and write in your own words.
A good application usually explains:
  • what the idea is
  • why you want to do it
  • who might be involved
  • what people might experience
  • how you will use the funding
You do not need formal language or detailed planning documents, just a paragraph or two explaining what, why, who and how. And use your own words, for example: Instead of writing: “To facilitate participatory creative engagement outcomes…”  you can simply say: “I’d like engage Jane Foe to run a beginner printmaking afternoon for local teenagers.” Simple is completely fine.

What this grant is not for
This program is designed for small creative projects, not:
  • large ongoing programs
  • operational costs or infrastructure
  • formal training courses
  • projects requiring long-term administration or management​
If your idea feels a bit bigger, we’re still happy to talk with you about possible future opportunities.

Need help?
If you are unsure whether your idea fits, please ask.
We are happy to:
  • talk through ideas
  • help clarify your application
  • explain the process
  • support first-time applicants

Why this program exists
We believe creative ideas often start small.
This program exists to help members:
  • try new ideas
  • build confidence
  • share creativity with others
  • and create meaningful community experiences
We can’t wait to see what you come up with.

How to apply
Complete the online application form by clicking on the link below.  Application is short and designed to take only a small amount of time to complete.