Frankston City Council announces 2024-25 Business Grant recipients

Published on 17 December 2024

Commonfolk-owner-Sam-Keck-and-barista-Miki-Leamon

Frankston City Council is pleased to announce the successful recipients of the 2024-2025 Frankston City Business Grants, with 17 local businesses awarded a total of $150,000 in funding.

Popular modern Asian restaurant Bang Bang will be supported to find a new location in Frankston, while other recipients include a new liquor distillery, archery technology for clients with physical impairments, a 3D foot scanner, a co-working space and many more exciting and innovative initiatives.

Frankston City Council Mayor Kris Bolam congratulated the recipients and said the grants are designed to support the growth and expansion of businesses in Frankston City. “The grants focused on funding for relocations, expansions, and improvements to facilities to help boost business and employment thus strengthen our local economy,” Mayor Bolam said. “These fantastic businesses are already thriving, but with a little extra financial support from Council we can help them do even more business, right here, in Frankston City, accelerating their success and longevity.” “Small businesses are the backbone of our community and the more we can support them, the more vibrant and economically sound, our city.”

The recipients span a range of industries, from hospitality to health, manufacturing, and professional services.

The grants are divided into three categories: Business Expansion, Relocation to Frankston City, and Taking the Next Step, each providing tailored support to local businesses.

Among the recipients is the popular Commonfolk Café who will be moving to a larger premise on the corner of Playne and Young streets early next year. Commonfolk owner Sam Keck said they were “stoked” to receive one of the Frankston City Business Grants. “For years, our customers have been asking us to move into a bigger space, but as a small cafe, the costs of relocation have always felt out of reach,” Mr Keck said. “Thanks to this grant, not only have we found the perfect new spot, but we’re turning it into something next level. We can't wait to welcome the people of Frankston to enjoy the best freshly brewed coffee in our new space. “In a time when rising costs and red tape can make it tough for small businesses, the backing from our local council and their business development team is a breath of fresh air."

Frankston Business Collective CEO Joyie Wood was also optimistic about the impact of the grants, highlighting the importance of this support for the growth of local businesses.

“We are thrilled to see the Frankston City Business Grants in action, as strong support from the Council is vital to the success of our local businesses,” she said.

“We look forward to connecting with the grant recipients and celebrating their achievements in strengthening our vibrant business community.”

Below is the full list of 2024-2025 successful recipients.

Business Expansion

Bayside Shoe Warehouse
Funding to purchase and install a 3D foot scanner to enhance customer service and operational efficiency.

Peninsula Larder
Funding to create product awareness videos for marketing their niche products via social media.

Embodied Being
Funding for a social media campaign and the purchase of an electric massage table to grow their well-being services.

Plumbed
Funding for external painting, signage, and store fitouts to support a rebranding effort for this family business.

Tres Mexican
Funding for the installation of a cool room to support additional café operations at their prime beachfront location.

Garron Skylights
Funding to build a showroom for their skylight products and consultations.

A & M Garages and Sheds
Funding to create a display for backyard shacks, showcasing their new product offerings.

Eliza Archery
Funding for archery equipment upgrades, including foam, targets, and technology to improve services for clients with physical impairments.

Commonfolk Young & Playne
Funding to support their move to larger premises, with funds directed to furniture, fit-outs, and audio-visual equipment.

PASO (Peninsula and South East Oncology) Medical
Funding to support the acquisition of Ion Torrent Genexus System to enable in-house genomic testing for cancer treatment

Elsie Operations Trust t/a Indah Health
Funding to extend operations to an adjacent property to meet growing demand.

Spicy Web Pty Ltd
Funding to support office fitouts for the expansion of their operations within Frankston.

Vince La Rocca Eyecare
Funding to purchase new diagnostic equipment, expanding service offerings and creating employment opportunities.

code Cat
Funding to create a co-working space in their newly renovated premises, fostering a creative and collaborative environment.

Relocation to Frankston City

Stache House Beverage Co
Funding for the relocation of their distillery and bar to Carrum Downs, supporting local production and hospitality growth.

Bang Bang Frankston
Funding to transform their retail premises into a fully operational restaurant, supporting the city's vibrant dining scene.

Taking the Next Step

Streamline Energy
Funding to support the move from a home-based business to commercial premises, covering signage and office fit outs for this growing electrical business.