Grantus secures $5 Million for Inclusive Sports in Regional Victoria

Grantus recently partnered with Leisure Networks to secure its share of $5 million in funding from the All Abilities Workforce and Sector Support Program 2024-27. This funding will boost sports participation and job opportunities for people with disabilities across regional Victoria, supporting the Victorian Government’s Active Victoria strategy.

This article explores how a proactive strategy and collaborative approach were pivotal in securing the grant. It also offers insights on leadership, effective teamwork under pressure, and improving grant applications.

The Challenge

Leisure Networks’ relatively new CEO recognised the upcoming funding opportunity early and was confident that the organisation was well-positioned to deliver the program. However, expert guidance was needed to bring this vision to life. With the Board and leadership team backing his plan, Grantus was approached months before to determine whether the partnership was workable. When the funding was announced, Grantus was engaged and together, we aimed to demonstrate how Leisure Networks’ local expertise and strategic partnerships uniquely positioned it to deliver the program across regional Victoria.

The Solution

Grantus and the leadership team worked closely from the outset, prioritising the approach, vision, alignment, and strategic focus for the submission. Our efforts centred on developing governance structures and fostering partnerships rather than simply writing content.

The early engagement allowed us to position Leisure Networks as a compelling candidate, refining the project concept and ensuring all aspects of the proposal highlighted its potential for long-term community impact. The submission leveraged the organisation’s experience, reputation, and strategic vision while meeting key government criteria.

Grantus facilitated a collaborative environment by working on-site with the executive team. This unified approach, characterised by regular in-office sessions and clearly delegated responsibilities, promoted shared ownership and collaboration. It resulted in a comprehensive submission that showcased the program’s social, economic, and strategic benefits, with contributions from across all divisions within Leisure Networks.

The Outcome

The $5 million grant will enable Leisure Networks to share the coordination of this regional program and expand its reach across regional Victoria, creating job opportunities and increasing sports access for people with disabilities. This success is a testament to the power of strategic partnerships, proactive planning, and teamwork.

Lessons for Not-for-Profits:

• Plan Early and Strategically: Engage the right people well before funding rounds open to allow for in-depth preparation.
• Break Down Silos: Foster collaboration across all levels of the organisation to maximise expertise and resources.
• Align with Funding Priorities: Position your organisation’s goals within broader government strategies to enhance your application.

Is your organisation seeking more than just a grant? Grantus specialises in strategic advisory, helping not-for-profits develop a winning vision, execute plans, and foster collaboration. Contact us to explore how we can help you secure your next funding success.