ABC Future Fund

Through our Future Fund, we provide small grants and opportunities to grassroots Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations, fostering self-determination and driving economic empowerment for sustainable futures.

We are a registered public fund, managed by ABC Foundation Ltd, dedicated to supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations in alignment with our strategic plan. Our vision is to strengthen remote and regional communities across Australia.

Supported by philanthropic and corporate donations, the Future Fund operates nationally with a focus on regional impact. Bi-annual grants are awarded to eligible organisations implementing projects under the On-Country Development and Care guidelines. This selective application process aligns with our strategic priorities and emphasises measurable social outcomes.

1. Small Event / Activity Grant (up to $2,500)
- Eligibility: Open to Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations where over 50% of the workforce ownership/management and over 50% of grant beneficiaries are Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people.
- Focus Areas: On-Country Education, On-Country Care, and On-Country Research & Development. These programs should align with the ABC Foundation's strategic priorities and have a measurable, lasting impact on Indigenous communities.
- Purpose: Provides one-off funding for small-scale community events or activities that bring people together and create positive local impact.
- Application Timing: Available year-round with project funding depending on the availability of the Future Fund. The ABC management committee reviews applications 2-3 times per year.

2. Larger Grant Funding, For On-Country Programs
- Eligibility: To apply for larger grants, organisations must become an ABC On-Country Community Partner. This status is awarded to organisations with a proven capacity to deliver long-term projects and meet the criteria.
- Focus Areas: On-Country Education, On-Country Care, and On-Country Research & Development. These programs should align with the ABC Foundation's strategic priorities and have a measurable, lasting impact on Indigenous communities.
- Benefits of Partnership: Once your organisation becomes a Community Partner, you can access priority funding and long-term support to implement ongoing programs.
- Application Timing: Available year-round, with project funding depending on the availability of the Future Fund.

Aims to strengthen Indigenous communities through on-country engagement, economic empowerment, and community-led initiatives.

Eligibility criteria
- All applicants must be an Aboriginal organisation with an ABN and the organisation must be able to demonstrate an alignment to ABC Foundation vision and strategic priorities in remote areas across Australia.
- More than 50% of the workforce ownership/management AND more than 50% of grant beneficiaries are Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people.
- The organisation must have a core focus that is in line with the ABC Foundation programs; organised, conducted or promoted for the relief of poverty, sickness, destitution, helplessness, suffering, misfortune, disability or distress. With either a social or environmental focus.