Applications were accepted from 12 noon on Monday 4 May until 3pm on Monday 15 June 2026 and have now closed.
Applicants will be notified of the outcome of their application by the end of August 2026.
What type of activities will be funded?
Council is seeking to fund small business improvement projects which contribute towards Growth and help Alexandrina to thrive. Projects should generate economic development benefits for the Alexandrina region contributing to increased consumer and visitor spend.
Eligible activities may include:
- Enhancing marketing capability by improving customer engagement through strong brand presence, streamlined booking options, and more effective use of digital and traditional media
- Engaging professional photographers to capture images to enhance your business's digital library
- Procuring consulting services to prepare necessary documentation to support State and Federal funding applications (e.g. architectural, master or concept plans)
- Supporting business associations to help their members grow and succeed through the provision of training, resources and other capability building services.
Guidelines
Potential applicants are encouraged to read the Business Initiatives Grant Guidelines to get an understanding about grant eligibility, the application and assessment process, and other important information.
Business Initiatives Guidelines
How to apply
Applicants are strongly encouraged to contact Council’s Business Development Officer on 8555 7000 to discuss their proposal before commencing the application process.
Applications must be made by completing the online Business Initiatives Grant Application Form, accessed via the SmartyGrants website linked below.
Applicants will be notified of the outcome of their application by the end of August 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
The following entity types can apply for Council's 2026-27 Business Initiatives Grant:
- Established businesses with an ABN located in the Alexandrina Council region, including sole traders
- Incorporated Industry, Business and Township Progress Associations
The total funding pool allocated to the Business Initiatives Grant program in 2026-27 is $20,000, subject to Council's adoption of the Annual Community Plan 2026-27. Eligible entities can apply for up to $2,500.
Yes, a minimum funding request of $1,000 applies to all applications.
Funded projects must be completed by 30 June 2027. Recipients must sign a Grant Funding Agreement prior to funds being processed which will outline the full terms and conditions of funding. A Grant Evaluation and Acquittal Report must be completed within two months of project completion. Non-compliance may affect eligibility for future grant funding.
SmartyGrants has a comprehensive online Help Guide for Applicants which should assist with most queries regarding the application process. If you’re still having difficulty, please call Council’s Grants Officer for further assistance on (08) 8555 7000
Most Business Initiatives Grant funded projects in line with our current grant guidelines will not require permits; however, some activities may still require approvals depending on their nature. Applicants are responsible for identifying and obtaining any permits, approvals or licences required to deliver their project before activities commence.
Approvals may include:
- Development approval (for works requiring architectural, concept or master plans, or for change of use of business premises, signage or advertising)
- Landowner consent if activities take place on leased or shared premises
- Event approvals if funded activities include public events or activations on Council land
Applicants should seek advice early if their project involves any physical works, events or public-facing activities.
Where development approval is required, applications must be lodged through the PlanSA portal. In some situations, development assessment fees paid to Council may be eligible for refund or waiver in accordance with Council’s Development Assessment Fee Waiver and Refund Policy. Applicants are encouraged to discuss approval requirements with Council’s Business Development Officer.
Funding offers may be made subject to special conditions, including approval requirements to be met by 31 May 2027. If these conditions are not satisfied by the required date, the funding offer will lapse. Grant recipients must notify Council promptly if approval delays or project changes arise and seek written approval for any variation to scope or timeframe.
Previously Awarded Grant Recipients
More information
For further information on about economic development, supporting local businesses and links to industry resources, visit the Economic Development webpage.