Loans to Cooperatives Scheme SA

About this grant

This program provides loans to eligible cooperatives engaged in processing and storing primary product.

Eligibility requirements

All of the following criteria must be met:

• South australian cooperatives processing and storing primary product.
• The scheme enables cooperatives to claim generous commonwealth taxation benefits on the loan facility, by claiming interest, depreciation, and principal repayments, where the loan is provided by a government source.
• Your cooperative must meet these conditions to be eligible for the loan:
• The cooperative must operate in south australia and the primary object of the business must be the acquisition of commodities or animals from its shareholders
• Shares representing at least 90% of the value of cooperative must be held by people who supply the cooperative with commodities or animals for business purposes
• The loan must relate to improving marketing, packing, processing, or storage of primary industry commodities of its shareholders
• The loan must be secured with an unconditional bank guarantee from a financier who meets relevant requirements
• The cooperative must demonstrate that it is viable and able to repay the loan.
• Low-interest loans for small business disaster recovery
• Rebates for wa businesses employing new indigenous employees
• Relief from energy charges for drought-declared farms

What the funding covers

• Loans and the associated taxation benefits.

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/loans-to-cooperatives-scheme-sa for application details

Application tips