The Gambling Community Benefit Fund (GBCF) is Queensland’s largest one-off community grants program, distributing approximately $57 million of funds to Not-for-Profits (NFP) and community groups each year.

But how easy is it to apply?

Applying is simple. Being successful is a little trickier.

This is a highly competitive grant with tight restrictions on what can and can’t be funded, by who and when.  But don’t let that you deter you!

The Qld government has numerous video and written resources on their website that step you through the application process, from how to register, to completing the application and the acquittal process if you are successful.  These are simply awesome for the inexperienced and make the application process a cinch! (Qld government application resources provided in links below).

But why do some grant writers say it’s difficult?

Well……….. for a couple reasons:

• They aren’t confident, haven’t had much experience or success with this grant themselves
• Because it is a highly competitive fund
• Because the funding priorities change semi-regularly

Are any of these reasons valid? Sort of! They are all things to keep in mind but none of them necessarily change the level of difficulty.  And the best way to learn anything is to jump in a give it a go.

This is one of the easiest grant applications to cut your teeth on. Even if you aren’t successful, you will learn a lot and be more confident and knowledgeable next time.  It is also quite a short application, so once you are registered there isn’t a huge time investment.

How you can improve your chances of success

Like all funding applications – Be prepared!

1. Read the guidelines carefully. Decide whether you are eligible or not. If not, don’t precede.  Job done!
2. Read the funding priorities carefully.  Is what you are wanting funded an eligible item or not. If not, don’t precede.  Or change the items you are requesting.
3. If you tick all the eligibility boxes, go ahead and register
4. Get quotes for your requested items

Then complete the application.  It really is that simple! Unfortunately most mistakes are made in the preparation process. Fortunately, this is easily overcome.  Whether you choose to complete this application yourself, or engage a professional to to write it for you, the preparation part will still be up to you.

How you can improve your competitive advantage

Well that is another conversation ENTIRELY!

However, in coming months you will be able to find a FREE short course on this very topic in the Thriive Academy. The ‘Gambling Community Benefit Fund – Application Essentials‘ course.  It will provide answers and practical solutions to this very question.

The Gambling Community Benefit Fund is literally one of the easiest grants you can get started on.  It’s a great application to increase your confidence and experience.

So why not jump in and give it a go!

Click here to view the Qld Government’s GCBF online resources.