Whitsunday community groups and not-for-profits can now apply for grants of up to $5,000 through the new Whitsundays Chamber Community Fund, with applications open Monday 14th September
The Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry has launched the Whitsundays Chamber Community Fund, creating a new way for money generated through Chamber activity and local business support to be reinvested into the community.
The Fund will provide grants and in-kind support services of up to $5,000 to eligible not-for-profits, community groups, and volunteer organisations delivering projects and initiatives that benefit the Whitsunday community.
The funding pool will include a share of stallholder fees from the Airlie Beach Cruise Ship Markets and Proserpine Community Markets, along with donations, sponsorships and funds raised through Chamber activities and events.
Chamber President, Allan Milostic, said the Fund recognised the important role community organisations and volunteers play across the region.
“Some of the things that make the Whitsundays such a great place to live, work, and visit aren’t run by business at all – they’re run by volunteers, community groups and small organisations working with tight budgets and a lot of goodwill,” Allan said.
“The Chamber’s role is to support business and strengthen our local economy, but a strong economy is only part of the picture. We also want to contribute to a strong, connected and resilient community.
“This Fund is about closing that loop – taking money generated locally and putting it back into local causes.”
The Fund will support a range of community projects and initiatives, with funding available across three categories:
- Project Grants of up to $5,000 for defined projects with clear outcomes and budgets.
- Community Initiative Grants of up to $3,000 for shorter initiatives, events. or programs.
- Marketing Grants providing $1,000 in-kind Chamber marketing package.
Eligible organisations do not need to be Chamber members to apply.
Applications are assessed against published criteria including community benefit, financial need and value for money, alignment with the Fund’s purpose and the organisation’s capacity to deliver.
The Chamber said transparency and accountability would be central to the Fund, with applications independently scored by the Chamber Board.
“We want organisations to know there is a fair and transparent process, and businesses and market stallholders who contribute to the Fund can have confidence that their money is being put back into the community,” said Cait Fleming, the Chamber’s Portfolio Manager responsible for the Fund.
The Fund also provides an opportunity for local businesses to contribute directly to community causes through donations, sponsorships and fundraising.
“Many local businesses want to support the community but don’t necessarily have the time or capacity to identify organisations, manage grants or work out where their contribution can have the greatest impact,” Cait said.
“The Fund provides a simple way to contribute, while allowing community organisations to put forward the projects they know will make a difference.”
Round 1 Opens Monday
Applications for Round 1 of the Whitsundays Chamber Community Fund open Monday 14th September 2026 and close 11:59pm Sunday 18th October 2026, with outcomes to be notified by 30 November 2026.
Community organisations are encouraged to review the eligibility requirements and apply if they have a project or initiative that could benefit from funding.
For questions about eligibility or an application, organisations can contact the Chamber at portfolios@whitsundaycoastchamber.com.au.
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