APPLICATIONS are now open for three of Indigo Shire’s annual grants programs with more than $130,000 available.

Grants for community ranging from $200 to $4000, events ranging from $1000 to $10,000 and for community sustainability grants of up to $5000 to improve energy efficiency or to build community capacity to implement greenhouse gas emissions reductions technologies.

Another is up to $10,000 for capital improvement projects.

Mayor Sophie Price said council is once again proud to support its many community organisations through these annual programs and encourages any organisation looking for a funding boost to apply.

“We’re fortunate to have a number of wonderful, dedicated community groups across the shire and these grant programs are a really tangible and practical way we can support them,” she said.

Cr Price said the award fund often meant ideas and initiatives came to life which may not have happened otherwise.

Osbornes Flat Hall Committee’s project, 'Osborne Flat Community Resilient Future’ was funded through last year’s program for expansion of its solar PV system, including a 19.3 kWh battery, and installation of a single-phase plug for a portable generator.

Committee co-president Ian Fitzpatrick said funding received was critical to ensure the initiative could be delivered with many community benefits.

A number of drop-in sessions have been organised for anyone interested in learning more about the available funding and how to apply.

From 10am to 2pm next week council officers will be at Chiltern Library on Monday, July 8, Rutherglen Library on Tuesday, July 9, Yackandandah Library on Wednesday, July 10, Beechworth Library on Thursday, July 11 and Tangambalanga Library on Friday, July 12.

For online appointments available during these times email info@indigoshire.vic.gov.au to book.

More information can also be found awww.indigoshire.vic.gov.au/grants.

Applications close Monday 5 August.