STRUGGLING businesses and community groups providing COVID-19 support are eligible for grants under a $370,000 Redland City Council package.
The COVID-19 Relief and Recovery Grants Program followed a council decision last month to re-purpose existing grants within this year's remaining budget to help meet some of the financial challenges arising for community groups and businesses from COVID-19.
The first stream would support community organisations helping people directly affected by COVID-19 with grants of up to $10,000.
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Mayor Karen Williams said the grants would help the organisations keep supporting struggling Redlanders.
"We are aware that many community members are doing it tough at the moment, whether it be through job loss, isolation, homelessness or other COVID-19 impacts," she said.
Council would provide $80,000 to help local businesses develop new, innovative ways of operating.
Businesses were eligible for up to $5000 each.
"This may include the use of technology, research and design or innovative products, services, projects or collaborations," Cr Williams said.
Local businesses in critical need of support due to COVID-19 could also receive grants of up to $1000 per business for professional advice.
Cr Williams said council was fielding many calls from business owners seeking advice on how to deal with the impacts of the unprecedented business environment.
"There are a number of stimulus measures available for businesses, but we know the information can be confusing and when you are financially and emotionally stressed it can be even more difficult to know what you are and aren't eligible for," Cr Williams said.
"This funding will help businesses get the professional advice they need to access the right funding and support for their individual business."
For more information, visit council's website or contact council on 3829 8999.
