From Monday April 8, applications will be accepted for three different streams that include council's annual event sponsorship, community donations program and local heritage grants.

For event organisers holding events between August 1, 2019 and January 31, 2020, applications are invited for funding of up to $10,000, to be assessed based on the level of economic, social and cultural benefits generated through the event. Additional funding is available for larger 'iconic' events, and a second round of funding will be made available later this year for events planned for January - July 2020.

Through the community donations program, community groups are encouraged to apply for up to $2,000 to support capacity-building projects, activities, or equipment purchase. In a second category designed to assist in getting new projects off the ground, up to $10,000 over two years will be made available to establish self-sustaining initiatives.

And through the Local Heritage fund, owners of heritage places across the region can apply for up to $2,000 to assist with restorative works, subject to matched funding from the property owner.

"The Local Heritage Fund is all about preserving our region's heritage and breathing new life into buildings and places from our past," council's Senior Strategic Planner, Sue Calvin said. "While the funding is available to people who own a heritage place, the benefits are enjoyed across the broader community as an important part of our unique neighbourhoods".

To help members of the community understand where to start, whether they're eligible and how to complete the application form, information sessions will be held around the region.

Information sessions will be held at:

· Forster Council Chambers, Monday April 8 at 5.30pm

· Taree Visitor Information Centre, Wednesday April 10 at 5.30pm

· Tea Gardens Baptist Church, Thursday April 11 at 12.30pm

· Gloucester Senior Citizen's Centre, Thursday April 11 at 4.30pm

RSVP's are not required and everyone is encouraged to attend their nearest session.

More information specific to each program, eligibility criteria and the application forms can be found by visiting www.midcoast.nsw.gov.au/funding Applications across all three programs open on Monday April 8 and close at 4.30pm on Friday May 10.