Latrobe City Council is supporting small to medium businesses, start-ups, and entrepreneurs, through a Small Business Grant program. This program is designed to assist businesses with a focus on diversifying the economies of the Morwell and Moe CBD’s. The grants aim to address vacant commercial spaces and aid both existing and new businesses in the area. The program will support the establishment of new businesses or the expansion of existing businesses, create employment opportunities within the CBDs, increase the occupancy rate of vacant shopfronts and stimulate economic activity and enhance the overall appeal of both CBDs. Latrobe City Council Mayor, Councillor Dale Harriman, encouraged eligible businesses to apply for the grant. “These grants will help cover capital improvement costs including furniture, flooring and painting, Council fees and permits, IT and specialised equipment, software and more,” said the Mayor. “Council is committed to supporting our existing local businesses, helping the creation of new businesses allowing innovation and encouraging investment within our CBDs.” Council is holding information sessions about the grants in April, learn more via the website: www.latrobe.vic.gov.au/Small_Business_Grants Applications for grants are completed online using SmartyGrants. Applicants must address the eligibility, assessment criteria, answer all questions and submit all required documentation prior to the program closing. Applications close Monday 26 May 2025.