The Connection Fund 2026–27

Grant Description

The Connection Fund 2026–27 is part of the ACT Government's Capital of Equality Grants Program, supporting community-led initiatives that strengthen social connections, inclusion, wellbeing and belonging among LGBTIQA+ people, their families and communities in Canberra and surrounding areas. The program seeks to improve understanding of LGBTIQA+ experiences, increase community participation and reduce barriers to equality, with particular encouragement for initiatives involving Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, culturally diverse communities, people with disability, trans and gender diverse people, intersex people, young people and seniors. Approximately 90% of the Capital of Equality Grants Program's annual $100,000 funding allocation is directed towards the Connection Fund, with individual grants of up to $5,000 and organisational grants of up to $15,000.

What It Funds

The fund supports community events, exhibitions, arts and cultural activities, recreational and sporting participation, inclusive social gatherings, community resource and publication development, awareness campaigns, community-led research, and projects improving access to services, facilities and social opportunities for LGBTIQA+ people. The 2026–27 round also supports celebrations, exhibitions, installations and reflection forums commemorating the tenth anniversary of the marriage equality postal vote in November 2027. Eligible expenses include project delivery fees, materials, resources, catering, venue hire and public liability insurance, with grants of up to $5,000 for individuals and $15,000 for eligible organisations and community groups. An additional 7% auspicing fee may be provided where applicable. Funding excludes retrospective expenditure, debts, alcohol, equipment valued over $1,000, grant application preparation, land or vehicle purchases, construction, commercial ventures, fundraising, overseas conferences, formal qualifications, personal living expenses and unrelated marketing costs. Projects requiring ongoing funding or duplicating existing funded activities are generally ineligible unless they demonstrate an eligible expansion and future sustainability.

Eligibility Criteria

Eligible applicants include LGBTIQA+ individuals residing in the ACT or surrounding region, incorporated not-for-profit organisations and registered charities operating in the ACT or surrounding region, and unregistered LGBTIQA+ community groups or collectives operating on a not-for-profit basis with an eligible auspicing organisation. Individual applicants under 18 require parental, carer or guardian consent, while temporary visa holders must have at least two years remaining on their visa. Registered organisations must hold an ABN or provide the required Statement by a Supplier declaration, and unregistered groups must arrange auspicing with an eligible not-for-profit organisation before applying, including a signed support letter. All applicants must have satisfactorily acquitted previous ACT Government grants, demonstrate community need and direct benefits for LGBTIQA+ communities, and deliver projects primarily within the ACT, achieving at least one program outcome and completing activities within one year. Relevant insurance and supporting documents must be provided where applicable. Government entities, political parties, for-profit businesses, social enterprises, educational institutions and organisations operating licensed premises or gaming machines are ineligible. Applicants may submit multiple applications, but only one can receive funding. Applications must be submitted online through SmartyGrants.