RDA Illawarra Shoalhaven (IS) developed and commenced delivery of the Regional Funding Bootcamp Series (RFBS), a targeted capacity-building initiative designed to improve grant readiness and funding success across the Illawarra and Shoalhaven region.

The series was established in response to identified barriers facing small businesses, community organisations and not-for-profit groups, including limited grant-writing experience and difficulty navigating increasingly complex funding programs.

Since commencement, RDA IS has delivered a combination of in-person and online workshops across the region, attracting participation from more than 50 community representatives. Workshops have covered grant identification, eligibility assessment, project planning, budgeting, proposal writing, supporting documentation and funding acquittal processes. The program has brought together funding professionals, government representatives, universities and experienced grant recipients to provide practical, real-world expertise and support.

Impact in the Region:

The RFBS has had tangible impacts by strengthening the long-term capability of organisations to secure external funding and deliver projects that support community development, economic growth and regional resilience. Rather than providing one-off assistance, the program equips participants with reusable skills and resources that can be applied across future funding opportunities.

The initiative has been particularly valuable for volunteer-led and under-resourced organisations that often lack the expertise and capacity to pursue grant opportunities. Participants have reported increased confidence in identifying suitable funding programs and preparing competitive applications. The program has also strengthened relationships between community organisations, businesses, government representatives and funding stakeholders, creating a more connected regional funding ecosystem.

Building Regional Grant Capability:

A significant outcome of the program has been the creation of a collaborative regional funding network that connects community organisations, local businesses, funding professionals, universities and government representatives. Through the bootcamp workshops, participants gain insight from both funding applicants and assessors, helping them better understand funding requirements and improve application quality.

To support ongoing capability development, RDA IS has also implemented a regional funding dashboard and resource library, providing continued access to funding opportunities, templates, guidance materials and practical tools beyond workshop delivery. This ensures organisations can continue building their grant readiness and pursue opportunities well after participating in the program.

As additional workshops are rolled out across the Illawarra and Shoalhaven region, the initiative is expected to further increase the region's ability to attract investment, support local projects, create employment opportunities and strengthen community outcomes.