The Victorian Government is backing the return of Bentleigh Festival, supporting local traders and boosting the local economy.

State Member for Bentleigh Nick Staikos today announced that Bentleigh Traders’ Association has received a $20,000 grant from the third round of the Business Chambers and Trader Groups Program.

The grant will go towards holding the much loved Bentleigh Festival on Sunday 20 November 2022.

Business chambers and trader groups play an important role in supporting small businesses across the state.

The grants enable these groups to deliver projects that connect business communities and help them adapt, innovate and rebuild at a local level.

An overwhelming number of high-quality applications were received for the third round of the program, with 70 successful grant recipients.

Since the Business Chambers and Trader Groups Program was launched in 2020, the Victorian Government has provided $7 million to support more than 300 local business organisations across the three rounds.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Small Business Jaala Pulford

“Our local business chambers and trader groups play a vital role in supporting small businesses communities across the state.”

“This program continues to support creative initiatives that fuel the local economy and keep businesses and community connected. I look forward to seeing more of these ideas brought to life in small business communities across Victoria.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Bentleigh Nick Staikos

“Bentleigh Festival is such a muck loved community event, and I am delighted that our Government is supporting its return with this grant.”

“This will go a long way to supporting our wonderful traders in the lead up to Christmas.”