Your community and not-for-profit organisation can apply for funding to support projects that offer clear community benefit, contributing to social outcomes, community welfare, environmental, health, education, or cultural areas.

Community and not-for-profit organisations can apply for projects and activities that offer clear public benefit for the community and align with our 6 Key Impact Pillars

1. Strengthening volunteer-led community organisations

We help strengthen the capability, resilience and long-term sustainability of local community groups by supporting initiatives that improve governance, build skills and grow volunteer participation and retention.

2. Social Connection and wellbeing

We invest in programs and initiatives which foster a sense of belonging, reduce social isolation and enhance overall wellbeing. We prioritise activities that bring people together, build trust and strengthen community cohesion.

3. Youth and education

We enable access to education, particularly for the young or disadvantaged, through investment in educational programs and scholarships.

4. Sports and recreation

We encourage active lifestyles, participation in sport and recreational opportunities for people of all ages and abilities. This includes programs that build skills, promote teamwork, improve physical and mental health, and strengthen community spirit.

5. Climate and environment

We support projects that protect, restore and enhance the natural environment while promoting sustainable practices in the community. This includes initiatives focused on conservation, climate resilience, waste reduction and biodiversity.

6. Arts and culture

We support cultural and heritage organisations, festivals, events and community-led projects that celebrate our local identity and enrich the social and cultural fabric of our region.

You must meet the eligibility criteria for our sponsorship program:

• Be an Australian organisation/Australian citizen with a valid Australian bank account.
• Be a current Bendigo Bank customer, or willing to become a Bendigo Bank customer.
• Not have any other sponsors who are financial institutions. This includes banks, brokers, insurance providers etc.
• Sponsored initiatives must be located in Gisborne, or the Macedon Ranges
• Sponsored initiatives must deliver clear business acquisition outcomes for Community Bank Gisborne & District.

• Phone: 0491 331 493
• Email: community@mrce.com.au