Business associations and local councils can now apply for funding to support Victorian small businesses to promote and celebrate local businesses, build their capability and support place-based activations that help increase local business activity.

Funding now available

The Shop Local Business Fund offers grants of $5,000 (excluding GST) to eligible business associations, including trader groups, business chambers and industry organisations, as well as local councils.

The funding will help deliver initiatives that strengthen local businesses and support economic activity.

What the funding can support

Eligible projects must benefit small businesses that operate in Victoria. This includes:

• local business expos and awards
• shop local campaigns
• business skill workshops and webinars
• resilience and wellbeing initiatives
• professional development of business associations.

About the program

Up to 200 grants are available through the program. Each eligible business association and local council can apply for one grant of $5,000 (excluding GST).

Key dates

Applications are now open and close 4 pm Wednesday 30 September 2026, or earlier if all available funding has been allocated.

Successful projects must be completed by Wednesday 31 March 2027.

Find out more

Business associations and local councils can find out more and apply through the Shop Local Business Fund page.

• Visit the Shop Local Business Fund
• Read the program guidelines
• Find out more from the frequently asked questions