One time funding for community orgnaisations
SharkPitch is an annual virtual crowdfunding event organised by United Way Glenelg in partnership with Beyond Bank and Powerhouse Productions.
Anticipated minimum funding of $8,000.
The event, modelled after The Funding Network, provides a platform for three local organisations with big ideas to connect with individuals who wish to make a positive impact in the community.
During the event, the participating organisations will have the opportunity to present their ideas and projects to a live audience on Tuesday 7 October 7.00pm 2025.
Organisations working in the areas of priority facing the Glenelg Shire community are encouraged to express their interest in participating;
- HEALTHY COMMUNITY – Improving health and well-being for all.
- YOUTH OPPORTUNITY – Helping young people realise their full potential
- FINANCIAL SECURITY -Getting a stronger financial future for every generation
- COMMUNITY RESILIENCY – Addressing urgent needs today for a better tomorrow.
- HEALTHY AGING – Empowering older people to stay connected, active, and thriving.
We are currently seeking 3 community organisations to participate in this event.
An emcee (MC) engages with the audience encouraging them to pledge funds, to raise a minimum of $8,000 per organisation.
United Way Glenelg together with Beyond Bank will provide the following;
Pitch coaching: To Support each “pitcher” to articulate their request to better secure funding for their project.
Individual support: After the pitch coaching we continue to work with you to hone your pitch and build your confidence to tell your story.
Guaranteed and matched funding: United Way Glenelg and its partner Beyond Bank expect to provide guaranteed funding of at least $8,000 per participating organisation to match pledges made by audience members at the event. This means every dollar raised for the organisation on the night up to $8,000 will be matched.
Marketing video: Powerhouse Productions will work with your organisation to develop a one minute video of your organisations work to share with your networks.
Shark Pitch offers a unique platform for fostering connections between donors and community organisations. This innovative opportunity enables individuals eager to contribute, whether through financial support, volunteering, or offering services and products, to connect with established organisations seeking assistance. Additionally, it provides community groups with the chance to enhance the skills of their staff and volunteers in areas such as public presentations, pitching, and self-marketing. It’s a dynamic avenue for creating impactful collaborations within the community.
The event: You will have the opportunity to participate in an event that will allow you to connect directly with a roomful of potential donors! You simply show up on the night and make your pitch.
If you are interested in participating in the Shark Pitch event you must complete our expression of interest form by 31 July 2026.
How organisations are selected to pitch:
- All expressions of interests are sent to a panel independent of United Way Glenelg. The panel will give United Way Glenelg their recommendations.
- The project must address an identified gap or need in the Glenelg Shire community.
- The pitch must be clear, concise and compelling.
If offered the opportunity to participate in SHARK PITCH you will need to identify who will pitch on behalf of your community Organisation and provide their bio and photo. This individual will be expected to participate in the pitch coaching session with a colleague (could be a board member or another staff member).
Still not sure what the Shark Pitch experience is like? Watch the video of our 2019 event:
Who can apply?
- Funding is available only to registered Community Partners*
- Have an ABN
- Be incorporated or auspiced by an eligible incorporated organisation;
- Be a community organisation providing opportunities in at least one of our building blocks as set out above;
- Have successfully completed an Evaluation Report for any previous funding received from United Way Glenelg. Failure to do so automatically makes your organisation ineligible; and
- Be operational within the Glenelg Shire.
How to apply
Funding guidelines
Please take the time to read the guidelines carefully before submitting your EOI.
2025 Funding Timeline
EOIs open
EOIs close
Notification of selection
Pitch coaching
Shark Pitch event
(formerly the Cinema)