Shire of Dandaragan offers $30k annual grant to businesses and industry to boost economic development

The Shire of Dandaragan has launched a new grant for businesses and industry, aimed at supporting innovation, attracting visitors and encouraging more investment and projects. The Shire is calling for community members to apply for the Economic Development Grant initiative, assisting to improve the shire’s prosperity and the capacity of local businesses. With a focus on projects that align with economic development areas including aged care, agricultural/horticultural processing and intensification, civil works, air services, tourism, small business development, renewable energy and aquaculture, the grant will assist successful applicants to deliver projects and activities that support growth in the region. There will be $30,000 available to disperse annually, with hopes the Shire investment will increase population, jobs, business capability and investment. Dandaragan Shire president Leslee Holmes said driving community prosperity was a key commitment which will result from local business success, jobs growth and new investment opportunities. “The introduction of the Economic Development Grant is an avenue for improving the business capabilities and liveability of our communities by supporting local businesses to seek out opportunities to develop their products and services and attract investment in our Shire,” she said. Chief executive officer Brent Bailey said the grant would create a pathway for local businesses to show projects are sustainable and can drive economic development. “For some small businesses this grant may provide the cash boost they need to get a great business growth initiative off the ground, while for others, it may enable them to expand production with a new technology or run a proof-of-concept trial to position their business to seek significant external investment,” he said. Grant applications close at 5pm on Thursday, August 31. To apply, or find more information, visit www.dandaragan.wa.gov.au