The Southern Gold Coast is perfectly placed to benefit from the growing demand for nature‑based tourism, and I am pleased to share that Round 2 of the City of Gold Coast’s (City) Nature‑Based Tourism Grants is now open.

This program is about backing local businesses to grow or create low‑impact tourism experiences that showcase our beaches, waterways, hinterland and cultural heritage. In its first year, the program proved its value, supporting local operators to expand what they offer while protecting the environments that make our city special.

The City has a role to play in giving local businesses the confidence to invest and try new ideas, particularly in emerging areas like nature‑based tourism. Targeted grant support helps reduce upfront risk for businesses, encourages smart investment, and supports operators to turn good ideas into viable, deliverable projects that benefit both the business and the wider community.

Round 2 includes two funding streams so businesses of different sizes can take part. Small grants support quick‑to‑market ideas and early activations, while larger grants back more ambitious projects that significantly advance the Gold Coast’s nature‑based tourism offering. Importantly for business planning, projects need to be commercially viable and ready to start within the next 12 months.

For local small and medium businesses, this is a genuine growth opportunity. Nature‑based experiences are one of the fastest‑growing areas of tourism, attracting visitors who stay longer and spend more locally. This program helps businesses respond to that demand while positioning the Gold Coast as a leader in sustainable tourism.

If you are a business owner with an idea that connects visitors with nature in a responsible way, I strongly encourage you to take a look and see whether this opportunity is right for you.

Applications for small grants close on 30 June 2026, with large grant applications closing on 31 July 2026.

Find out more and apply