Grants of up to $200,000 to support individuals, volunteers, community groups, and other organisations committed to improving the South Australian regional landscapes and urban ecosystems.
Current status of program
CLOSED
To register your interest in future rounds or discuss alternative grant opportunities please contact us here.
On this page you will find
What is the Grassroots Grants?
The Green Adelaide Grassroots Grants 2025–26 Program is a South Australian Government initiative designed to foster local, on-ground environmental projects across metropolitan Adelaide. It provides funding support to individuals, community groups, sporting and recreation organisations, not-for-profits, schools, universities, and incorporated Aboriginal organisations to help create a cooler, greener, wilder, and more climate-resilient city.
Grassroots Grants level of support
Minimum funding: $2,000
Maximum funding: $200,000.
Co-contribution requirements:
- Private landholders (2 hectares or greater) are required to match the funding with a cash contribution of their own.
- For other eligible applicants, any cash or in-kind contributions will strengthen the application but may not be mandatory.
Funding is provided in two possible ways, depending on the total amount requested:
- For grants up to $20,000: 100% of funds are paid once the funding agreement is signed.
- For grants above $20,000: 70% of funds are paid on signing the agreement, and the final 30% is released upon approval of the first progress report.
Projects may run for up to three years.
Grassroots Grants important dates
- This program is currently closed
- Register your interest with GrantHelper
Grassroots Grants objectives
Through this funding, Green Adelaide aims to:
- Enhance coastal management and marine habitats
- Support restoration and protection of water resources and wetlands
- Increase green streets and flourishing parklands for cooler urban areas
- Protect and restore fauna, flora, and ecosystems in urban environments
- Control pest animals and plants to protect native species and habitats
- Deliver high-quality nature education opportunities for all ages
Projects eligible for Grassroots Grants support
Examples of eligible activities include:
- Site preparation and revegetation: weed removal, erosion control, planting native species, seed collection, or propagation
- Habitat creation or enhancement: installing nest boxes, pollinator hotels, or fencing that protects sensitive habitats
- Wetland and water resources restoration: constructing raingardens, creek-bank stabilisation, or water-quality monitoring
- Community engagement and education: workshops, field days, signage, and awareness campaigns
- Pest animal and plant control: strategic weed or feral animal control to protect biodiversity
Ineligible expenditure can include:
- Retrospective funding (activities started before signing the grant agreement)
- Infrastructure with no clear environmental or educational benefit (e.g. sheds, pergolas, playground equipment)
- Marketing or promotion not related to project outcomes
- Boundary fencing (unless it is specifically for protecting sensitive habitats)
- Training normally considered an organisation’s internal responsibility
- Activities already fully funded by another source
See the guidelines for full details of projects eligible for GG support.
Other Grassroots Grants important details that you will need to know
Organisations eligible for Grassroots Grants support
You must be a legal entity or be sponsored by one. The following are eligible to apply:
- Incorporated community groups or organisations (or a non-incorporated group with a legal sponsor)
- Not-for-profit organisations
- Sporting and recreation clubs
- Religious organisations
- Schools and universities
- Incorporated Aboriginal organisations (or non-incorporated groups with a sponsor)
Please note that local councils are not eligible to apply.
Grassroots Grants assessment criteria
All applications are reviewed by a panel of Green Adelaide staff and/or Board members. While no specific percentage weightings have been announced, the following factors are important:
- Clear, realistic objectives linked to at least one of the region’s six priority areas.
- Public benefit and community impact, including engagement with volunteers, schools, and other partners.
- Long-term sustainability, such as how the project’s results will be maintained after the grant period.
- Value for money, taking into account the project scale, potential impact, and any cash or in-kind contributions.
- Applicant capacity, including relevant experience and a well-developed project plan with risk mitigation.
- Timeline and milestones, demonstrating how and when key outcomes will be delivered.
How do I get the Grassroots Grants?
Projects must demonstrate clear environmental benefits in the Green Adelaide region. If your project idea fits within the program objectives, simply:
- Check eligibility requirements.
- Develop a robust project plan, including budget, site prep, partnership letters, and quotes.
- Gather the necessary permits and landholder approvals.
Information to prepare for the Grassroots Grants application
- Project scope and design: Outline specific activities, timelines, and intended environmental outcomes.
- Budget details: Provide quotes or estimates for contractors, materials, and equipment.
- Supporting documents: Photos of the site, maps, plant lists, or concept designs for larger projects (especially those requesting over AUD 50,000).
- Evidence of approvals: If relevant, provide landholder permission or council permits.
- Sponsorship agreement: If you are not a legal entity, a letter confirming sponsorship is required.
Applying for the Grassroots Grants
All applications must be submitted through the SmartyGrants platform: greenadelaide-sa.smartygrants.com.au.
Register your interest with GrantHelper to explore your alignment with this grant and how we can assist you to increase your chances of success.
Grassroots Grants resources
Is Your Business Eligible for This Government Grant?
GrantHelper can assist with your organisation’s grant application, no matter what stage of the funding journey you’re at.
Whenever You’re Ready, Here Are 5 Ways We Can Help You
- Grant Application Readiness
Assess your current position, identify gaps, and effectively prepare your organisation to meet the stringent requirements of grant applications. - Grant Strategy
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Assist you to craft persuasive applications that not only highlight your strengths but also align seamlessly with funders’ objectives. - Grant Application Review
Ensure your application stands out by allowing GrantHelper’s experts to meticulously review and refine your submission, maximising your chances of securing funding. - Bespoke Services
Access custom services like project management, business planning, and financial modelling to ensure your project’s success and sustainability.
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