How does it work?
The Project supports initiatives that provide sustainable, tangible and long-term benefits with positive outcomes for Australian rural, regional and remote communities. In turn this builds capacity, longevity, liveability and connection in the regions in which we operate.
Based on six distinct pillars, the project offers a total of 12 grants, with two tiers of funding at $10,000 and $20,000 per grant.
Each application must align to one of the following pillars.
People and regions
For initiatives that provide learning and investment for long-term career pathways and opportunities for our regional people.
Environmental awareness
For initiatives that enable communities to reduce waste through reuse and recycling, providing positive impact on our environment.
Innovation into the future
For initiatives that contribute to innovation and productivity in the agricultural industry and its communities.
Healthy bodies and minds
For initiatives that promote healthy lifestyles and minds, raising awareness and support for mental health and/or long-term health outcomes.
Encouraging diversity
For initatives that encourage and celebrate diversity in the community, where everyone can be included and have a sense of belonging.
Safety first
For initiatives that encourage and enhance safe environments in which communities can live, work and play, either through education or activation.
In addition to the six pillars above, there will be two People's Choice grants, for a maximum of $10,000 each. This open criteria grant will be voted for by Elders employees.
Key dates
- 18 March 2025 – applications open
- 15 May 2025 – 5:00 pm (ACST) applications close
- Late-July 2025 – successful applicants will be announced.
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Things you should know
Please download and view the Project Guidelines and Project Terms and Conditions, as these outline eligibility requirements and how your application will be assessed.
Who is eligible to apply
To be eligible, applicants:
- must be a not-for-profit organisation with an ABN or Incorporation Certificate. (unincorporated organisations may be auspiced by an incorporated organisation and must provide a letter from the auspice organisation confirming that the auspice arrangement is valid and current)
- must be located and service a regional, rural or remote community in which Elders or, an Elders owned and operated business, operates or has a physical presence, i.e., not a metropolitan area (this includes rural products and real estate branches)
- must not be affiliated with a political party or union, or take an overtly political stance in the focus of their work
- may have a religious basis, but any program or initiative must not incorporate religious teaching into the delivery of the program or initiative
- should declare if you are seeking funding for the same initiative elsewhere. It will not hinder your application or possible success
- must be able to provide a Certificate of Currency for public liability insurance (where applicable).
Who is not eligible to apply
Applications will not be accepted from entities that:
- do not align with Elders’ brand and values
- only benefit an individual
- are against the law, hazardous or dangerous
- already have significant competitors or brand saturation
- require on-going financial support or investment
- is primarily aimed at the promotion or sponsorship of a sporting activity. Sporting organisations are eligible to apply if their proposal is about the support of community sport, not the sport itself
- are commercial in nature initiatives.
Ready to apply? A few tips
Here are some tips and links to get you prepared to submit the best application possible.
- We recommend you download this application form preview so you understand what is required in your application. While you can't edit the document, you can practice your answers to each question. We suggest getting someone to review it for you, to pick up errors and let you know if you need more, or less information. It's ideal when working and applying as a group.
- Make sure you have saved digital copies of the attachments you will need to provide. This includes, but not limited to, your annual report, financial statements, letters of support – and if you are being Auspiced, you will need their details and a letter confirming the auspice agreement.
- Our application platform SmartyGrants has some great resources, including their Help Guide for Applicants and Applicant Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's).
- While you are submitting your digital application, remember to save as you go - your application does not autosave. If you need to, you can save and resume later, just note your application number.
- Finally, review your application thoroughly before pressing submit, as once it is submitted, it cannot be changed.
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