In a recent meeting of the Cape Town Advisory Committee, members discussed the potential for a significant shift in funding strategy, proposing the introduction of a small capital grant program that could allocate up to $1.5 million. This initiative marks a departure from the committee's traditional funding cycle, which typically awards large capital grants every four years and small grants every two years.

The committee is considering prioritizing these small grants for municipalities that did not receive funding from the previous large capital grant cycle. This approach aims to ensure that resources are distributed fairly among communities that may have been overlooked in past funding rounds. However, some council members expressed concerns about limiting eligibility, arguing that all municipalities should have access to the funds regardless of their previous grant status.

During the meeting, questions arose regarding the timeline for the grant process. The committee plans to discuss and potentially finalize the grant details at their next meeting on September 10, with an aim to issue a Request for Proposals (RFP) shortly thereafter. The RFP is expected to be open for about four weeks, allowing municipalities to submit their applications.

Committee members emphasized the importance of transparency and community involvement in the grant process. They have begun recording meetings and will publish them online to keep residents informed and engaged. Regular meetings are scheduled for the second Wednesday of each month, providing opportunities for public participation.

As discussions continue, the committee is weighing the balance between supporting municipalities that have previously received funding and ensuring that all areas of the county benefit from the available resources. The overarching goal remains to maximize the impact of the funding for the entire county, particularly in promoting tourism and economic development across all regions.