ACT Microcredit Loan Program

About this grant

The ACT Microcredit Loan Program provides low income earners with interest free or low interest loans to help them start or expand an existing business.

Eligibility requirements

All of the following criteria must be met:

• Act residents on a low income.
• Have had a health care card (for a period of at least 6 months), pension card or equivalent
• Have a combined family income no higher than $75,000 (including de facto relationship)
• Have been an act resident for a minimum of 6 months (proof of residency required)
• Have an existing or semi established business based in the act.
• Enquiries@lighthouseinnovation.com.au
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What the funding covers

• Interest free loans of up to $3K or low-interest loans of between $3.0K and $10K.

How to apply

1. 1Confirm readiness: Ensure you meet criteria (e.g., ABN, turnover limits, GST registration), align project objectives with grant goals, and estimate time for evidence gathering and writing.
2. 2Gather evidence: Collect documents like financials, business plans, market research, project budgets, resumes, risk analysis, and support letters to prove capability and impact.
3. 3Register/log in: Obtain an Australian Business Number (ABN) if needed, sign into the relevant portal (e.g., Business Grants Hub portal), and note any prerequisites like advisory service reports.
4. 4Prepare and write application: Address all selection criteria clearly (project details, government alignment, costs, outcomes, benefits); keep concise, factual, and compelling; validate for completeness.
5. 5Review, approve, and submit: Proofread, get stakeholder sign-off, submit online via the portal before deadline (no late entries); expect eligibility check, merit assessment, and outcome notification.
6. 6Visit https://business.gov.au/grants-and-programs/act-microcredit-loan-program for application details

Application tips