Home topics news Credit: Dan Freeman News News Sydney invests $5m in community programs and businesses Yajush Gupta July 18, 2023 The City of Sydney has announced the approval of more than $5 million in funding for the next financial year, benefiting a wide range of community programs, sustainable projects, businesses, and festivals. A total of 179 projects have received funding, aiming to boost the local economy, enhance the city’s environmental initiatives, and bring cultural and creative ideas to life. According to Lord Mayor Clover Moore AO, this funding plays a crucial role in supporting communities and invigorating local businesses. In the previous financial year, the City of Sydney awarded over $19 million in cash and value-in-kind grants, supporting various projects ranging from public art and community gardens to multicultural events and business programs. These initiatives contribute to making Sydney an outstanding place to live, work, and visit. The grants and sponsorship funding encompass several areas: Business Sector Support and Innovation Grants: Under this program, more than $1.25 million has been approved for 34 projects. These include forums focused on Sydney’s night-time economy, a business coaching program for creative organisations and artists, sustainability workshops for the hospitality industry, and a training program for First Nations and migrant entrepreneurs. Diversity Arts Australia has been awarded $40,000 to develop an online training program in the creative sector, promoting racial equity and inclusion. Cultural and Creative Grants: Over $2.6 million has been awarded to 64 recipients for cultural and creative projects. These initiatives