Parramatta Council has launched its 2026 Community Grants Program, offering $375,000 to local groups and social enterprises aiming to make a difference across the city.
Applications are now open for the Community Round, the first of two major funding rounds this financial year under the Council’s Annual Community Grants Program. The initiative supports grassroots efforts that build inclusion, connection and opportunity throughout the Parramatta Local Government Area.
Lord Mayor Cr Martin Zaiter said the grants are about backing local energy and ideas that help shape the city.
“A strong local community is the base for creating the best place to live, work and play, and our Annual Community Grants are key to helping local community groups service our area,” he said.
“With locals helping shape a more vibrant, connected and inclusive Parramatta, these grants are a fantastic opportunity to bring those ideas to life.”
The Community Round includes three key categories:
Community Capacity Building Grant – $245,000: This stream is aimed at sport and recreation clubs, service organisations, and other local groups seeking to run inclusive, sustainable initiatives. Projects may focus on increasing access to services, improving facilities, cutting social isolation, and building partnerships across the community.
Growing Social Enterprise in Parramatta Grant – $80,000: Open to established social enterprises, this funding supports businesses seeking to grow their presence within the local government area. It can be used for relocation, expansion, or launching new local programs that offer ongoing benefit.
Community Event Grant (Round 1) – $50,000: Designed to support free or low-cost events, this stream is for organisers aiming to deliver cultural, social or recreational activities. Events should add something fresh to Parramatta’s calendar while attracting diverse audiences.
Applications for the Community Round close on 15 September 2025, with successful applicants expected to be announced around December or early January.
This round is part of a broader $725,000 grants package for 2025–26, which includes additional funding through the Cultural Round, Quarterly Grants Program and the Representative Sports Grants.
Organisations interested in applying are encouraged to review the detailed eligibility criteria and guidelines available on the City of Parramatta’s website. A list of previous grant recipients from 2025 is also available to guide new applicants.
For further information, contact the City of Parramatta Council Media Team on (02) 9806 5965 or email media@cityofparramatta.nsw.gov.au.
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