Motorsport Australia’s Club Business Workshop provided valuable insight into what goes into applying for funding grants that can enhance and improve a club’s overall operation and infrastructure.

Led by Motorsport Australia’s Grants and Funding Manager, Fiona Telford, the workshop took participants through practical procedures in preparing stronger and more strategic grant applications, highlighting common mistakes during the application process, as well as direct question and answer engagement.

Telford is no stranger to the grant application space, drawing on 25 years of experience in ministerial and government relations roles, with 15 years in sport-specific disciplines.

“Transfer of knowledge is the intention here. One of the important things we explain to clubs in this workshop is we want to teach clubs where and how they can apply for these kinds of grants,” Telford explained.

“We look at at levels of government like State and Federal, and the different areas of funding they typically recognise – these include areas such as inclusion, youth, regional development and infrastructure programs.

“There’s also other non-government grants that are available to clubs, namely grant initiatives like Motorsport Australia’s Club Development Fund and other private foundations and non-profits.”

The workshop also touches on areas such as ‘The Strategic Approach to Grant Writing’, ‘Grant Preparation’ and ‘Developing Your Budget’ with the aim of helping clubs to position themselves as strong candidates for potential funding opportunities.

Club officials and administrators are encouraged to connect with Motorsport Australia’s Grants Department should they have any questions, or head to the Club Resource Centre for free access to grant-related tools.