![](https://sportscentral.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/sponsors-thank-you.png)
COVID-19 has brought about many challenges for community sporting clubs, particularly in relation to sponsorship agreements and fundraising activities. Local businesses and organisations who provide financial support to clubs, some over a significant number of years are facing challenging times.
Now more than ever clubs have an important role to play to maintain their connection and show that they value the relationship with their sponsors. Without their generosity, clubs may not have enjoyed their past successes and opportunities for growth.
Ways in which clubs can support their sponsors include:
Clubs within the Central Highland region have already been implementing some of the initiatives. Check out Avoca FNC, Ballarat Sebastopol BMX Club, Ballarat Basketball and Bacchus Marsh Soccer Club for some great examples.
Be sure to share what you are doing with the wider community as this will help showcase your club’s values and demonstrate that “we’re in this together”.
Sport and Recreation Victoria have launched the first round of the Aboriginal Sport Participation Grant Program. The grants provide assistance to Aboriginal Victorians to participate in Aboriginal sporting carnivals, buy sports uniforms and equipment, as well as funding for travel and accommodation expenses for athletes to compete in state and national competitions.
The Australian Sports Commission’s Local Sporting Champions program are now open, providing financial assistance for coaches, officials and competitors aged 12-18 participating in state, national or international championships.