State Organisation Support Program

These guidelines provide details for Category 3 state sport and active recreation organisations wishing to apply for an ACT Government investment from the State Organisation Support Program (SOSP) for projects to be administered via a 3-year funding agreement.

Organisations applying under the SOSP are eligible for up to $35,000 per year to be used for improving organisational capacity and capability as determined by the organisation’s prior submission to the SSO Categorisation Matrix.

Program Guidelines

State Organisation Support Program - Funding Guidelines (PDF 699KB)

Important Dates

Applications Closed Midday, Friday 15 March 2024

Outcomes Advised - May 2024

Funding Overview

ACT State Sport Organisations (SSOs) and State Active Recreation Organisations that have been categorised through the SSO Categorisation as a Category 3 organisation are eligible to apply for an investment from the SOSP.

If you are unsure of your categorisation please contact Sport and Recreation.

The SOSP will consider Category 3 organisations whose applications clearly align with addressing performance measures identified through the SSO Categorisation process.

Funding is to be used for specific projects within your sport, and operational expenses. An application may seek to address a number of identified projects over the 3-year term.

Year 1 (2024) proposed projects must address organisational governance, policy and planning initiatives.

Organisations are not required to apply for Year 2 (2025) and Year 3 (2026) projects within this application. Project proposals for Year 2 and Year 3 will be discussed and approved during performance assessments with Sport and Recreation.

Year 1 (2024)

Project Initiatives

Up to $25,000 of funding to address organisational governance, policy and planning initiatives.

$10,000 allocated towards operational costs to support project initiative.

Year 2 (2025)

Project Initiatives

Up to $25,000 of funding to support digital transformation and data/software upgrades.

$10,000 allocated towards operational costs to support project initiative.

Year 3 (2026)

Project Initiatives

Up to $25,000 of funding to support participation and workforce development.

$10,000 allocated towards operational costs to support project initiative.

Applications that meet all the general eligibility requirements will be assessed against the following criteria in meeting the objectives and outcomes of the SOSP:

Project Description and Objectives

  • Clarity of project goals and objectives.
  • The potential impact of the project on the organisation.
  • Demonstrates   ability to measure and evaluate impact.

SSO Categorisation outcomes

Demonstrate how the proposed “year 1” governance, policy, planning initiative:

  • aligns with addressing performance measures identified through the SSO Categorisation process.
  • aligns with one (or more) strategic priorities identified in CBR Next Move.

Timelines and budget

  • A realistic budget that includes all necessary expenses.
  • A realistic timeframe that meets program requirements regarding project commencement and completion dates.

Capacity and capability

  • Demonstrates readiness, capacity, expertise, and skills to deliver project outcomes and achieve success. This may include the formation of relevant partnerships and/or collaborations with relevant stakeholders.

Sustainability

  • The likelihood of the project of having a lasting impact after the funding period.

Step 1: Check your eligibility

  • Before you apply, please read the guidelines to make sure you understand all relevant requirements.
  • Applications including all support material, must be made through the online SmartyGrants portal to be considered eligible.
  • Contact your Sport and Recreation to discuss your application and receive the application link.

Step 2: Prepare your application

  • Applying for the SOSP is a simple process using the SmartyGrants Platform.
  • An online help guide can be found here: Help Guide for Applicants (smartygrants.com.au)
  • It is recommended that applicants familiarise themselves with the online application form ahead of preparing the application and gather supporting documentation ahead of the closing date. You can download a copy of the application form prior to commencing your application.
  • It is expected that the time required to coordinate the quotes, support letters, and other relevant attachments required can take in excess of 5+ hours. Sport and Recreation suggest that applicants take this into consideration when planning to submit an application.

Step 3: Submit your application

  • Complete the application by filling in each of the sections.
  • Submit the application before the closing date and time.
  • Successful submissions will be issued with a SmartyGrants system generated acknowledgement email containing a PDF copy of the application which will confirm the time the application was submitted.