There is $200,000 up for grabs to assist locals in producing face to face or online events. The grants are for between $1,000 and $10,000.

Orange mayor Reg Kidd said COVID restrictions had forced event organisers to get creative.

"It's been really tough for many people in the community, including charities who rely on events to help raise the funds needed to support vulnerable people and medical research," Cr Kidd said. "It's been really hard for businesses, which host events, and they've lost out on those bookings.

"But things are starting to turn around. We've seen socially distanced events go really well and of course online events and Zoom functions are still occurring with increasing popularity."

The funding is for events to be held in January, February and March next year. Applications open October 1 and close November 15.

Funding can be allocated to almost any event expense. As part of the application process, there is a focus on identifying the local benefit the event or project will bring to the Orange community.

Examples of previous grants include placing advertising banners in the main street at no cost to the organiser, event sponsorship and prizes for competitions.

"If you've never applied for funding before and don't know where to start then give council a call and our events staff will help you out," Cr Kidd said.

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