Innovation and ideas grants
Supports projects that foster innovation, expand opportunities, showcase local expertise and test new ideas to address local and global issues across our strategic priorities.
Applications are open
- Applications close: Tuesday 12 August at 4pm
- Project timeline: 1 January 2026 to 31 December 2026
- Recommendations to Council: November 2025
Join us for an online information session at 1pm on Thursday 10 July 2025. The session includes a briefing, overview of the priorities, eligibility and general requirements.
Registration is essential.
About this program
This grant program supports projects that foster innovation, expand opportunities, showcase local expertise, and test new ideas to address local and global issues across our strategic priorities.
Projects that deliver across multiple priorities are encouraged.
Funding can support:
- research and feasibility studies relating to the funding priorities listed below
- projects that test and extend new approaches for addressing local and global issues
- demonstration projects that promote market awareness and adoption of innovations
- development and implementation of best practice approaches and toolkits
- new technologies and platforms that support the delivery of the funding priorities
- initiatives that increase the scale of delivery for existing projects.
Funding available
Cash funding up to $50,000 a year is available, for a one-year program or multi-year funding (up to 3 years).
If you’re not an eligible not-for-profit organisation or an incorporated association, you’re required to match the cash funding with cash and/or value-in-kind.
You can apply for up to $5,000 worth of capital expenditure or equipment purchase.
Value-in-kind in the form of indoor venue hire is also available.
Research or reports funded through a City of Sydney grant should be made readily accessible to the public. Council may choose to vary this requirement as part of the grant conditions, where appropriate.
How to apply
Applications for grants and sponsorship must be completed online.
Apply nowFor more information, see our grants and sponsorships page.
You can also email cityconcierge@cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au or call 02 9265 9333.
You can review all our strategies and action plans.