More funding to transform NSW precincts with next round of Uptown Grants now open

The Uptown Grant Program is part of the acclaimed and award-winning initiative designed to 
support local business and community networks to build self-sustaining vibrant precincts in line 
with the NSW Government's 24-Hour Economy Strategy.

Round 4 of the Uptown Grant Program will see a total of $4 million in funding available to help
continue to transform precincts and support going-out districts that reflect the bespoke cultures of 
local areas in NSW.

The latest round is open to applicants within Greater Sydney, City of Newcastle and City of 
Wollongong, and previous recipients. Applicants can apply for an Uptown Grant of between 
$100,000 to $120,000 in funding. 

Under the previous round of the Uptown Program, a total of 37 precincts received funding. This 
included 16 previously funded precincts, such as the iconic Hollywood Quarter, Hornsby After Dark 
and Brookvale Arts District, as well as 21 new precincts including Port Kembla Precinct, Midtown 
Newcastle and Canley Heights Nights.

The Uptown Grant Program is a key element of the NSW Government’s 24-Hour Economy Strategy, 
encouraging place-based collaboration, promotion, activations and storytelling within districts, and 
providing a platform for districts to innovate with reduced risk and ultimately become self-sustainable in the future. 

Applications for the grant program are now open. Applications close on 31 March 2026. To find out 
more or to apply, visit: https://www.nsw.gov.au/business-and-economy/office-of-24-hour-economy-commissioner/uptown-program/uptown-grant 

24-Hour Economy Commissioner Michael Rodrigues said:

“At its heart, Uptown is about empowering local communities to activate their districts. The 
program’s oldest graduates include household names like YCK Laneways, Enmore Road and the 
Inner West Ale Trail.

“As the program has expanded over time and business groups get more coordinated, it’s also 
starting to do a similar job in places like Gosford, Newcastle and Wollongong. 

“We look forward to supporting our district partners through this program.”