Applications are invited for the first round of the Charles Sturt University (CSU) 2015 Community-University Partnerships (CUP) Grant Program.

Relevant community organisations across the University's regional footprint can apply for funding from the Rural and Regional Education Development Program category which replaces the former 'Schools Development Grants' category and now includes early childhood.

Head of Campus at CSU in Wagga Wagga, Ms Miriam Dayhew, said, "The Community University Partnership program aims to build both capacity and aspiration through partnership with and support for local organisations because the University's mission is to advance educational opportunity and research in ways that meet the particular needs and aspirations of our communities.

"Last year, the University provided many individual grants to groups across our regions for education, cultural, economic, sporting, or related activities. I urge all who have a project or activity that meets the program criteria to apply."

Applications for CUP Rural and Regional Education Development Program category close on Monday 31 March.