Shortlisted candidates will be contacted this week as the Noosa Biosphere Reserve Foundation determines its final investment decisions for its record breaking $330,000 grants round.

More than 50 applications were submitted and Board Director Ms Clare Cartwright says the response was unprecedented.

“We put a call out for Noosa’s next big ideas and the community responded,” said Ms Cartwright.

“The Foundation was inundated with applications for this grants round and we are completely inspired.

“In total, fifty-four applicants sought funding in excess of $2.3m to support projects to the value of $5.2m including additional cash and in-kind contributions.

“This result is testament to the community’s commitment to the Noosa Biosphere Reserve and securing Noosa’s future by protecting our rich and unique environment.”

Over the next few weeks, an independent sub-committee will be seeking to finalise deeds of agreement with shortlisted applicants and approving funding to the total value of $330,000.

“This is the largest investment the Foundation has ever made in a single round,” said Ms Cartwright.

“Our aim is to get these projects approved and off the ground as soon as possible.

“We’ll be approving projects under $20,000 within the next few weeks and negotiations with shortlisted larger projects continuing over the coming months.”

The aim of the grants scheme is to fund projects that contribute to both Noosa’s economic and ecological prosperity.

“It’s about people living in harmony with the environment, and appreciating that economic prosperity comes also from protecting our natural assets.”

“The Foundation is keen to support projects that will contribute long-term benefits to the community and we are confident that we can do that with the projects that have been put forward.”