By Benjamin Millar
Maribyrnong community groups and clubs are being urged to hone their ‘pitch’ to score valuable funding.
The annual Seddon Community Bank “Community Pitch” invites Maribyrnong groups to pitch a project for a chance to share in a pool of funding donated by businesses based in the area.
The initiative has delivered about $85,000 to the community since launching in 2015.
Last year’s event distributed almost $30,000 and organisers have set an ambitious $40,000 target to make this year’s the biggest yet.
Bank branch owner Inner West Community Enterprises is looking for 18 community groups, sporting clubs, schools and organisations to present a three minute ‘pitch’, as well as Community Pitch Partners to donate the funding.
IWCE spokeswoman Suzanne Saunders said with a new format, the goal is not just to provide funding but to also create greater community awareness for “the amazing organisations” that contribute to the local community.
“We’re also looking to increase our number of Pitch Partners to ensure we reach our funding target,” she said.
“If you’re part of a local business, this is a great opportunity for you to hear about community programs and projects, meet and build relationships amongst the
community and choose the groups you want to support.”
Community groups will need to complete an application form and provide a short pitch video by April 1.
Videos will be put online to allow the community to vote for their favourite, with 18 finalists then invited to pitch their project onstage at the Yarraville Club on May 15.
Applications open Friday at www.iwce.com.au/community-pitch.
