Grants and Funding
Grants provide show societies with vital funding to support community events, improve facilities, and invest in future generations. By applying for grants, societies can unlock opportunities to upgrade infrastructure, deliver new programs, and strengthen their role at the heart of their communities. Securing grants not only eases the financial burden on volunteers but also helps ensure the long-term sustainability of agricultural shows across NSW.
Crown Reserves Improvement Fund (CRIF)
The NSW Government’s CRIF program funds maintenance, repairs and upgrades to Crown reserves, including showgrounds. Projects must usually be completed within 12 months.
In 2024–25, $11.1 million was awarded across 98 projects, including four showgrounds.
Other Opportunities
- NSW Grants & Funding Portal – lists open state funding programs, many of which are relevant to shows.
- RAS Foundation – Community Futures Grant – up to $25,000 for rural community projects, including showground improvements.
Keep in mind: some CRIF rounds exclude freehold showgrounds, minimum amounts can be high, and eligibility rules change each year. Always check current guidelines.
Grant Seeking Success
Presentation from Institute of Community Directors
In this practical session, Nina Laitala from the Institute of Community Directors Australia shares essential tips for successful grant writing—covering how to prepare, find the right opportunities, and build strong funder relationships. Learn what grant makers look for, how to strengthen your application, and how to stay resilient when outcomes aren’t successful. Ideal for not-for-profits aiming to boost their grant success and impact.
Sponsorship
Sponsorship is vital to the success of agricultural shows across New South Wales.
As not-for-profit, volunteer-run events, shows rely on the generosity of local businesses and organisations to keep entry affordable, celebrate agriculture, and deliver entertainment for the whole community.
By sponsoring a show, businesses not only gain valuable exposure and goodwill but also play a direct role in sustaining rural traditions, supporting youth development, and strengthening community spirit. Sponsorship is more than a transaction, it’s a partnership that helps shows continue to thrive for generations to come.
Camden Show Presents at AgShows Conference
At the 2025 AgShows NSW Conference, Camden Show Society shared insights into building effective sponsorships that go beyond financial support. Presented by Leanne Sandrone, Finance, Sponsorship & Tradespace Coordinator, the session explored how teamwork,
relationships, and creative acknowledgment can help shows attract and retain sponsors.
The presentation provided practical strategies, from identifying opportunities and approaching sponsors to delivering on promises and nurturing long-term partnerships. Camden’s experience highlighted that sponsorship is not just about money, but about community, collaboration, and shared success.
Fundraising
Fundraising plays a crucial role in keeping agricultural shows alive and accessible. As not-for-profit, volunteer-run events, shows depend on community fundraising efforts to cover essential costs, invest in infrastructure, and support new initiatives. Every raffle ticket sold, donation made, and fundraising event held directly helps ensure that our shows remain affordable, vibrant, and welcoming for all. Fundraising is not just about raising money it’s about communities working together to protect traditions, celebrate agriculture, and secure the future of local shows.
The Data Required for Fundraising- Presentation by Terry Wilcher
At the AgShows Conference, Terry Wilcher highlighted how the right data can make or break your fundraising success. Funders want proof, not just passion, and being able to demonstrate attendance, visitor origins, marketing reach, and economic impact builds a compelling case for support. By using tools like ticketing systems, surveys, and tourism insights, shows can turn numbers into powerful stories that unlock grant funding and ensure long-term sustainability.
Big Bush BBQ
The Big Bush BBQ is a celebration of community spirit, giving local agricultural show societies the chance to showcase their pride, passion, and country hospitality at the Sydney Royal Easter Show. Thanks to the generous support of the RAS Foundation and Woolworths, societies can take part at no cost — raising vital funds and sharing their region’s story on one of Australia’s biggest stages.
Bunnings Sausage Sizzle
Bunnings proudly supports a wide range of local not-for-profit community groups, offering them the opportunity to fundraise through their famous sausage sizzles. These events are a great way for show societies to raise money, connect with the community, and promote their local show. If your group is interested in hosting a Bunnings Sausage Sizzle, simply complete the form below to register your details.