The Small Towns Big Difference Pilot program allows community organisations within Buloke will be able to build community capacity, social inclusion, community pride and improve lifestyle and access to community services, along with projects that develop the local economy.

Buloke Shire mayor Daryl Warren said this funding was an important way of supporting community groups.

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"Our community groups and volunteers are an essential part of Buloke, as they help to strengthen our communities," he said.

"This funding will provide those opportunities to continue to create meaningful change in our communities."

The $120,000 fund is a collaboration between council, the Mallee Regional Partnership, Charlton and Donald Community Banks and the Bendigo and Adelaide Bank.

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The pilot was developed in recognition that many funding programs are geared towards economic development rather than the social benefits of small communities.

Bendigo and Adelaide Bank chief executive Marnie Baker said it would be great to see Buloke businesses benefitting from this initiative.

"The launch of the Small Towns Big Difference pilot program is a source of great pride for the Bendigo and Adelaide Bank which has been supporting community projects like these for many years through its philanthropic arm, the Community Enterprise Foundation," she said.

Minister for Regional Development Mary-Anne Thomas said the state government was pleased to be a part of the initiative.

"We are proud to support small-community organisations to fulfil their potential through our Small Towns Big Difference pilot program, backing projects that boost community connection and pride," she said.

Applications for the funding will open early 2022.

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