¶ THE Collie Futures Small Grants Program is paused to new applications and a review will be undertaken ahead of its anticipated relaunch early next year.
South West Development Commission (SWDC) chief executive officer Cate Brooks advised that review of the program, under which businesses can apply for grants of up to $100,000, will ensure it “continues to support projects that positively contribute to Collie’s transition”.
The pause will allow for a “comprehensive” review, with feedback on the grants process from previous applicants to inform program changes.
“This will include a review of the application process, including updates to the program documentation, such as guidelines,” Ms Brooks said.
“The purpose of the review is also to provide greater clarity on the program objectives and requirements to continue to support stronger applications.”
Feedback from previous applicants will be taken into consideration as part of the review.
Ms Brooks did not directly respond to a Bulletin query about whether feedback was received about the application process being difficult to navigate and potentially restrictive for applicants.
“Over the time that the grants program has been open, Collie’s Just Transition has progressed significantly,” she said.
“Given this, it is timely to undertake a review of the program which includes consideration of all feedback to ensure it continues to provide the right opportunities for Collie.
“While the program has successfully supported a number of applications, the focus is always to continually improve the application process to ensure it is as user friendly as possible and supports the strongest projects possible.”
Applications submitted on or before July 18 will follow the current assessment process, allowing grants to be awarded to any successful applicants during the pause.
The SWDC expects to reopen the program, which has been running since 2018, to new applications early next year.
Almost $4 million has been allocated to 53 projects under the program since its launch across sectors including retail and tourism.
Prospective applicants can still make an appointment to meet with SWDC staff to discuss their proposals during the pause.