Since it began nearly five years ago, Awesome Newcastle has given away over $40,000 to local people with good ideas.
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On Wednesday, November 20th, the board will open up their typically private event to the public.
From 6pm at the Criterion Hotel at Carrington, attendees can listen to pitches and learn more about the finalists in this non-bureaucratic grant giveaway that backs all kinds of initiatives.
"I've been involved with Awesome Newcastle since it began in 2015," guest board member Wayde Christie said.
"It's a great way to keep up with the cool ideas and people doing stuff in the city, and it's also really rewarding to see one thousand dollars cash go directly to the winner, immediately.
"My favourite finalist was Tantrum Theatre back in 2015 - I was lucky enough to see an amazing local theatre production that Awesome Newcastle supported."
Awesome Newcastle is part of Awesome Foundation, an organisation started in the US which now has chapters across the world. Awesome Newcastle exists due to permanent and revolving board members who are willing to attend, listen, vote and donate $100 cash.
Returning finalists for Wednesday will be Nerida Bint from Lissome Gym, Peter Di Girolamo from Macquarie Care and Murrie Harris of the card game The Singing Drummer.
Anyone can apply to Awesome Newcastle, and each month three finalists are selected to pitch.
They have three minutes to explain their idea and two minutes to answer questions; then the board deliberates and casts votes. The votes are counted, and one finalist takes home $1000 cash. (Applications never expire, so finalists are often invited back if they are unsuccessful at first.)
Becky Kiil is the founder of local walking tour company Newcastle Afoot. In June of 2017 she was awarded the thousand dollars.
"Awesome Newcastle is community working at its best. It brings passionate people together to make awesome things happen, and from my experience the mentoring and advice from board members can be priceless. Without the vital funds I won for business insurance I may not have been able to start Newcastle Afoot. Two years on I'm still thankful." Kiil said.
Other notable winners from Awesome Newcastle include Secret Book Stuff, The Share Shop, Just Like You Dolls, Cuplet Poetry, Uukoo Dimentia App, Feedback Organics, Helpful Love and many more.
Attend the upcoming event to learn more. To apply for the funding or to become a guest board member click here.