In association with the Economic Development Charter(PDF, 1MB), Council has launched a new bi-annual Small Business Friendly Grant. For more information, you can read the Small Business Friendly Grant Policy(PDF, 94KB).
Round 2 (FY26): Training and Development
The goal of this round is to help local businesses strengthen their skills, capability and workforce through targeted training and professional development.
This round focuses on practical, structured training that builds capability within the business and delivers lasting value.
What this round supports
Funding is available for training delivered by an external provider that improves how your business operates.
This may include training that strengthens:
- day to day operations
- compliance and governance
- leadership and management
- succession planning
- service delivery
- workforce capability
The emphasis is on training that will be applied in the business and continue to deliver benefits beyond the activity itself.
How the funding could be used
This round is flexible. The key requirement is that the training is structured, relevant, and delivered by a third party provider.
Examples include:
- a sole trader undertaking targeted training to improve business systems or compliance
- a business owner engaging a paid mentor or coach for their own professional development
- a small team completing a coordinated training program to lift capability across the business
- an on site workshop delivered for staff to build skills in a practical setting
These examples are illustrative only. Each application is assessed on its own merits.
Funding available
Council will contribute up to $2,000 per business.
You must match this amount with an equal or greater cash contribution.
The total project cost must be supported by a current, itemised quote from a training provider.
Key dates
Applications open Friday 1 May 2026
Applications close Tuesday 2 June 2026
Funding will be considered at Council’s June 2026 Ordinary Meeting.
Successful applicants must enter into a funding agreement by 30 June 2026.
Who can apply
Your business must:
- hold a valid ABN
- be based in the Longreach Regional Council area
- employ no more than 20 full time equivalent staff
- have been operating for at least six months
- have no outstanding debts to Council
Training must be delivered by a third party provider and completed by 30 June 2027.
What you need to apply
You will need to provide:
- a completed online application form
- a clear training proposal
- a current, itemised quote
- proof of matching funds
Incomplete applications will not be considered.
How applications are assessed
Applications are assessed on:
- how well the training aligns with your business needs
- whether the proposal is clear and achievable
- how the outcomes will be applied
- value for money
Funding is limited and not all applications will be successful.
What’s Not Covered
Funding cannot be used for travel and accommodation, wages, ongoing operational costs, retrospective expenses, personal items, or statutory fees.
How to Apply
Read the Funding Round Guidelines(PDF, 179KB)
Then
Apply Online Here
Applications close Tuesday 2 June 2026.
You’ll need to provide:
- A detailed training proposal;
- A current, itemised quote from a third-party training provider; and,
- Proof of matching funds.
For more information, contact Council's Economic Development team on (07) 4658 4111.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of training is eligible?
Training must be structured and delivered by a third party provider. It should build practical skills or capability that can be applied within your business.
Can I apply as a sole trader?
Yes. Sole traders can apply where the training is relevant to improving their business operations, compliance, or capability.
Can multiple staff attend the training?
Yes. Applications can include training for one person or a group of staff. The proposal should explain who will attend and how the training will benefit the business.
Can I run a workshop for my whole team?
Yes. On site or group based training is eligible, provided it is delivered by an external provider and meets the program criteria.
Can I use the funding for conferences or events?
Conferences, expos, and events that are primarily for networking or attendance are not eligible unless they include structured, skills based training.
Can I use the funding for travel or accommodation?
No. Travel, accommodation, meals and similar costs are not eligible.
Do I need to match Council’s funding in cash?
Yes. You must contribute an equal or greater amount in cash. In-kind contributions are not accepted.
What do I need to include with my application?
You must provide a completed application form, a clear training proposal, a current itemised quote from a training provider, and proof of matching funds.
Can I start the training before I am approved?
No. Funding is not available for retrospective expenditure.
When does the training need to be completed?
All approved training must be completed by 30 June 2027.
How are applications assessed?
Applications are assessed on how well the training aligns with business needs, whether the proposal is clear and achievable, how the outcomes will be applied, and value for money.
Is funding guaranteed if I meet the criteria?
No. The program is competitive and funding is limited. Council may award full, partial, or no funding.
What happens if my application is successful?
You will be required to enter into a funding agreement with Council. Funds are released once the agreement is signed by both parties.
What are my obligations after the project is complete?
You will need to submit a short completion report outlining the training undertaken, how the funds were used, and the outcomes for your business.