Community Bank Epping, as a franchisee of Bendigo Bank, has a commitment to support the Epping district through a substantial range of community grants and sponsorship each year. As a Community Bank, this is a key element of our mission and to date, the bank has given more than $3m worth of support to community activities. 

There are two types of financial support that we provide:

• Grants: This is usually funding for one-off items or projects. It can include equipment, training, capital works and fit out, courses and events.
• Sponsorships: This is usually an annual amount to assist sporting or community clubs. One-off projects should be applied for through the grant funding rounds.

A large range of projects are supported each year, and you can see who we supported in 2025 here. A first round of applications was held early in 2026 and funding was allocated for 24 projects – read more here.

We assist local sporting organisations, cultural and community groups, environmental projects, local events, charitable bodies with local activities and more. Grants are available to eligible not-for-profits organisations and charities (not individuals).

The key factor in all funding is that it can demonstrate a benefit to the Epping district and its community. Projects can be one-off small initiatives through to contributions to major new community activities or capital works. 

How to apply for a Grant

Grants are available during funding rounds.

The first round for 2026 was open during February. A second round will be open for applications from 1-31 August 2026 through our online application system. You can see a sample form below to give you an idea of the information you will need to supply.

All applications have to be made online via SmartyGrants. The form will go live on 1 August, but you can set up a SmartyGrants login beforehand.

If you are interested in applying, please first read our Community Funding Policy guidelines for detailed information on eligibility, how to apply and what the approval process is. You can see other tips about preparing an application here. If you are proposing a major project, you can also contact us to get more advice on whether it might be eligible for assistance.

If you have questions about grants funding or would like to initially have a chat about your project, please email eppingcbgrants@gmail.com with your details and we will call you back.

How to apply for Sponsorship (community sports clubs)

To apply for sponsorship (usually reviewed annually), please email eppingcbgrants@gmail.com for a link to this separate application process. Sponsorships are considered year round and not dependent on a grant round being open.