The Redland Foundation has announced the opening of the Dan Holzapfel Entrepreneurial Program, offering up to $25,000 per application for business start-ups in Redlands.
Redland Foundation grants coordinator Lauren Andreatta said funding was made available by local philanthropist Dan Holzapfel.
It would have long term benefits in the business sector, offering never before seen support, both financially and through access to some of Redlands leading business professionals.
“Applications are encouraged to apply for financial support of start-up capital, legal administration costs, research and development and fees associated with the completion of a prototype,” she said.
The program helps equip start-up businesses which employ local people and which will benefit the community.
Last year Mr Holzapfel of Victoria Point gave $100,000 to the Redland Foundation’s domestic and violence campaign.
The former councillor is also Citizen of the Year and has had a Victoria Point park named after him.
Mr Holzapfel, 95, went to Mount Cotton State School, leaving at 11 to work on his family’s tomato farm.
They switched to growing strawberries after the family bought 84 acres at Capalaba in the 1960s.
Mr Holzapfel also was a significant contributor to the Rotary International program for polio eradication and was the most significant private donor to the Redland Museum expansion.
Redland Foundation president Don Seccombe said the generosity of Mr Holzapfel had provided a wonderful opportunity for innovation that could potentially impact the local economy through product and service development.
Ms Andreatta said to be eligible for funding, applicants must be over 18 and while it was not essential that applicants lived locally, the business must be situated in Redlands.
“Business start-ups must contribute to the betterment of Redland city and demonstrate economic benefit to Redlands through growth, employment and generate opportunities for people,” she said.
Local business expert Donna Stone said she would encourage all eligible people to apply.
“Even the process, regardless of the outcome, will be an exceptional opportunity to improve, learn and grow,” she said.
For further information see RedlandFoundation.org.au/Holzapfel or contact Ms Andreatta via grants@redlandfoundation.org.au
