Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know what Grants programs are currently running?

Click here for a list of current grants programs.

What does DGR mean?

A Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) is an entity or fund that can receive tax-deductible gifts.

There are two types of DGR endorsement:

• An entity that has DGR endorsement in its own right
• An entity that is only a DGR in relation to a fund, authority or institution it operates. In this instance, only gifts to the fund, authority or institution are tax deductible.

What does TCC mean?

Tax Concession Charity.

The Community Enterprise™ Charitable Fund is a non tax-deductible fund for charitable purposes.
A charity is an entity established for altruistic purposes that common law regards as charitable. These purposes are relief of poverty, needs of the aged, sickness or distress, the advancement of religion, education and other purposes beneficial to the community, or part of the community.

Is my organisation a DGR or TCC?

If you do not know the answer to this simply submit your application and we will be able to determine this for you or enter your ABN into this website to check http://www.abr.business.gov.au/(1osielju35bjqj45vxvz3l45)/main.aspx.

Who can donations be received from?

Donations that can be received are:

• Bequests
• Corporate donations
• Individual donations
• Shares, property and stock

Communities can also establish future capital accounts for charitable purposes.

Who do we encourage applications from?

Organisations that support any of the following:

• Families, children and youth initiatives
• Public health programs and services
• Community capacity building projects
• Public education including tertiary education and school building and libraries
• Innovative community services
• Cultural and arts initiatives
• Environment projects.

See www.ato.gov.au for more information.

Does our organisation have to bank with the Bendigo and Adelaide Bank Group to apply for a grant?

No, your organization does not have to bank with the Bendigo and Adelaide Bank Group to apply for a grant.

How do we evaluate and prove that monies have been spent in the correct way by the community?

The Foundation considers evaluation of our Grants Programs to be very important. Understanding what works and just as importantly what does not, helps us to become better grant makers. The successful organisation has 12 months in which to complete the project that they have been granted funds for. They must then complete a proforma in which they provide a brief description of the completed project, any changes which were made to the original and reasons for these changes and an outline of how they believe the project has contributed, or is contributing to the wellbeing of the community. The Foundation may also send a representative to the organisation to conduct site visits and see just how much the grant assisted the community.

What happens if an application is late?

Applications must be received by close of business on the closing date or they will not be considered.

Should I hand write my grant applications?

Computer generated applications are preferred but hand-written applications are acceptable.

Should I send photos with my applications?

Supportive evidence including photographs assist in the decision making process. However please note that photos become the property of the Community Enterprise™ Foundation and we may use them for marketing purposes.

Will my group, club or organisation be eligible to receive funds?

All applications from eligible organisations will be considered.
Who is ineligible?
a) Some ancillary funds
b) Prescribed private funds
c) Political parties and
d) Artbank
e) Individuals

To check the eligibility of your application, please refer to the grant guidelines for which you are applying.

What about sponsorship?

The core activity of the Foundation is Grant Making. If you wish to make an application for sponsorship you should contact your local branch.

Is there or will there be a Grants Program running in my community?

Please click here for a list of the grants programs or call into your local branch of the Bendigo Bank to enquire. Grants programs are also advertised in your local paper.

Where can I get a copy of the application? (Internet or local branch)

Guidelines and applications are available here or you can call into you local branch of the Bendigo Bank and ask for a copy. Please note that applications will only be available at branches where a grants program is being run.

What if I don’t have the internet/email?

Copies can be obtained from your local Bendigo Bank branch. Otherwise a copy can be posted out once the branch takes your details.

When do applications close?

The closing date for any Grants Program will be provided on the application form.