Banyule Business Grants helping businesses survive and thrive through COVID-19
The impacts of COVID-19 on our economy and our business community have been significant. With many businesses doing it tough, some forced to close, we wanted to help businesses move online, pivot to where the market was showing a high demand or seek financial assistance through planning.
Our first round of business support grants was rolled out in April. A grant pool of $60,000 was distributed amongst 24 businesses.
Our second grant round applications are currently being assessed with a third grant round to commence early September.
Here are a few of our COVID-19 business grant recipients this year.
Travel Boutique – Jacki MacWilliams (pictured top left)
Recipient: Business Continuity Grant – Qualified consultant advice for business planning.
There is no denying that the travel industry has been greatly impacted over the last six months and Travel Boutique owner Jacqui certainly felt the strain. With substantial immediate financial loss, Jacki sought a grant to engage a chartered accountant, specializing in the travel industry to assist with business continuity planning and assistance with navigating state and federal government initiatives. Accessing this grant and other government funding allows Jacki to give her business the best chance to survive through these times. To book your next adventure, head to travelboutique.com.au.
K9 Homes – Darren McRostie (pictured top right)
Recipient: Business Support Grant – Assist businesses moving online to sell products.
K-9 Homes Pet Products is a distributor/wholesaler and manufacture of pet products. Located in Heidelberg West, owner Darren McRostie found that sales had dropped dramatically once Stage 1 restrictions came into play. Darren was successful in receiving a business grant to develop an e-commerce site, in partnership with his retailers, to increase turnover for all. For high quality pet products, give Darren a call on (03) 9455 2277. Website coming soon!
DOCASA – Rik Lo Nigro (pictured bottom left)
Recipient: Business Support Grant – Open business to new markets
The hospitality industry has been hit hard by COVID-19 restrictions. Rick Lo Nigro, owner of DOCASA in Ivanhoe saw an opportunity to diversify his business based on a grab and go concept. Banyule Council provided funding towards the purchase of a food display to help bring his idea to life. Rick was able to continue doing business during COVID-19 while also attracting a new customer base. To grab yourself a quick bite, head to DOCASA. Instagram/Facebook @docasaivanhoe.
Naturally Music – Natalie Valle (pictured bottom right)
Recipient: Business Support Grant – Moving online to sell products and services and brand awareness.
Naturally Music owner Natalie Valle was faced with either moving her music and dancing classes online or shutting shop during COVID-19. Natalie was awarded a grant to assist her business move online through the purchase of equipment and backdrops. With the grant, Natalie was able to continue to employ casual staff and contractors as well as hiring two new staff to assist with online delivery. Join a music or dance class with Natalie and her team at Naturally Music Instagram/Facebook @naturallymusic
To see the full listing of grant recipients click here