Ararat Rural City Council's highly successful Façade Improvement Grants program has been boosted with businesses across the municipality encouraged to apply for grants of up to $10,000 at a 2:1 ratio to spruce up their property facades.
Now in its fourth year, the latest round of the program boosts the assistance available from $5,000 to $10,000 with changes this year targeting new, expanding or relocating businesses to help improve our streetscapes and the enhance economic vitality of our towns.
Council chief executive, Dr Tim Harrison said the scheme is a clear example of Council’s commitment to supporting local businesses, giving them a strong foundation to attract new customers and increase turnover.
“First impressions for a rural town are important. Council originally established the Façade Grants program to help local businesses invest in façade renovations and improve the appeal of their properties,” Dr Harrison said.
“Over the last three years, Council has successfully invested $120,000 with matching dollars for local businesses to upgrade their street-facing exteriors.
“There are a few projects that are still in progress from this last round in Lake Bolac, Moyston and Pomonal, which will help enhance the prosperity of these smaller towns.”
“Council understands the top challenges new or expanding businesses face around business development, revenue and cashflow which may hold them back from participating in the scheme --- a scheme that allows for the upgrades of buildings, fixtures, and fittings to help secure the future of the business and protect the town’s streetscapes,” Dr Harrison continued.
“We have made variations to the existing scheme to better support new, expanding or relocating businesses.
“Importantly, this time, the grant scheme will be more accessible to new businesses with council providing funding support at a 2:1 ratio. This means a $15,000 project would be a $10,000 contribution from Council and $5,000 from the business.
“Recognising the important role of small and medium businesses across Ararat Rural City, it’s important to create more opportunities for these businesses to thrive.
“A vibrant streetscape positions our region as an attractive destination, further attracting visitors, new business opportunities and investment.”
Valued at up to $10,000 on a 2:1 contribution basis, the Façade Grants will help local businesses restore the town’s incredible heritage buildings and enhance their stores.
Applications will close once the funds are exhausted. For full details, including guidelines and an application form, contact Tim McDougall via email [email protected] or call 0448 848 527.
