Frankston City Council has announced the successful recipients of the 2025–2026 Small Business Grants Program, with 22 local businesses awarded a record total of $200,000.
From a creative party hub and a new café experience to sustainable concrete products and specialty food manufacturing, this year’s grants will support a diverse range of exciting projects designed to boost business and employment in Frankston City.
These projects are expected to create more than 40 new jobs across industries including hospitality, health, creative services, manufacturing, education, automotive, and professional services.
Mayor Kris Bolam JP congratulated the recipients and said the grants, which Council increased by $50,000 this year, underscore Council’s commitment to helping Frankston City’s small businesses prosper.
“Small businesses are the driving force behind jobs, growth and prosperity, and we look forward to seeing how these latest grant recipients will further boost our city,” Mayor Bolam said.
“The importance of these grants for Frankston City’s local economy is clear to see, as shop vacancies decrease and new businesses start up. With our local gross regional product growing from 9 billion to 9.6 billion between 2023 to 2024, these grants deliver a strong return on investment,”
Council established its Small Business Grants Program in 2011 as a proactive response to the Global Financial Crisis, helping stimulate local economic recovery and build long-term resilience across Frankston City’s business community.
Frankston City’s economic momentum continues to strengthen, with more than 820 new small businesses established in the past 12 months, one of the strongest uptakes in the region.
As part of their submission, businesses had to clearly demonstrate how their project will support economic and/or employment growth within Frankston City.
One of the successful applicants, Lara Robshaw from children’s party venue Kidztown, shared her excitement:
“This grant will allow us to launch Big Day Celebrations, expanding our creative offerings with custom-designed props and décor,” Ms Robshaw said.
“It’s a game-changer for our business and for families looking for unique experiences. We’re thrilled to grow in Frankston and contribute to the local economy.”
Since the program began as at June 2025, Council has provided grants to over 126 businesses, supported 760 direct jobs and contributed more than $470 million to the local economy.
Previous recipients include:
Commonfolk, recently awarded 2025 Café of the Year by The Age’s Good Food Guide. Their grant helped them relocate to a larger space on Playne Street, increasing capacity.
Streamline Energy, which moved from a home-based business to a factory in Seaford after receiving a grant in 2024–2025. They’ve since hired three new employees and plan to add two more by mid-next year.
Director Steve Roberts of Streamline Energy said: “We’re so grateful for the Council’s support. The application process was smooth, and it’s wonderful to know our growth is being recognised.”
Mayor Bolam added: “Commonfolk’s recognition and Streamline’s growth is exactly what these grants are all about. Every dollar supports local jobs, innovation, and economic resilience.”
A large number of Frankston City’s business grants recipients were also acknowledged as nominees in the 2025 Frankston Business Chamber Awards.
Bernadine Geary, CEO of the Frankston Business Chamber, commended Council for its initiatives in supporting local businesses:
“Every dollar matters, and as Frankston City expands and competition for business increases, these grants can be a game-changer. This initiative shows a clear commitment to driving economic growth.”
A recent audit commended the program for its robust processes and transparency. Council has built on these findings by providing comprehensive staff training and appointing a dedicated Grants Management Officer for further oversight.
The 2025–2026 recipients were chosen by a six-person assessment panel following a stringent process and endorsed by Council earlier in November. Below is the full list of 2025–26 successful Small Business Grant recipients.
Seaford Myotherapy and Sports Massage, LF Sign Group Pty Ltd, Minuteman Press Seaford, Nepean School of Dance, The Baby Gift Company, TY Barber Pty Ltd, Stone Outdoors Pty Ltd t/a Stonekast, Eliza Flower Studio, Cuvee Australia Pty Ltd, Slowburn Studio, Peninsula Plus, Kidztown, Cherrymotive Auto Electrical, PGA Institute, Mama Melisse, Truckpro, Alto Montessori Early Learning and Kindergarten, Alliz Trading Crystal Wholesaler, Fountain Law, Frankston Thai Restaurant, Square Peg Psychology, Prominent Builder Pty Ltd.
The grants will support business growth and expansion by helping existing Frankston City manufacturing, retail, health, professional services and hospitality businesses move into larger premises, expand operations, broaden their product or service offerings, and create new employment opportunities.
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