Ararat Rural City Council Kick-Start Grants Return to Power Local Business Growth

Ararat Rural City Council is pleased to announce the return of its highly successful Kick-Start Grants Program for the 2026/27 financial year.

This initiative provides an excellent opportunity for new home-based businesses to confidently establish their commercial presence, driving local economic development and job creation across the region.

The program delivers grants of $2,500 to offer crucial financial support for business owners making the leap into a brick-and-mortar location. 

Designed to be highly versatile, this funding helps offset essential startup costs, including rent, utility connections, fixture hire, local trade services, insurance, and marketing expenses.

These grants are available until the end of the financial year or until funding is fully allocated, representing a time-limited opportunity for local entrepreneurs to secure foundational support. 

"We want Ararat to be the absolute best place to start and grow a business,” says Ararat Rural City Council Mayor, Bob Sanders.

“Moving into a physical commercial site is a big milestone, and these grants are designed to take some of the financial pressure off those upfront costs. If you’ve got a business dream for Ararat, I highly encourage you to get in touch with our Economic Development and get the ball rolling."

To learn more or to submit your application, visit the Council website at www.ararat.vic.gov.au/community/grants-and-funding/kick-start-grants. 

To discover additional ways Council can support your business, please contact the Economic Development team directly on 0437 715 673.