Join us at History House or online for a day of practical insights into grant applications and sharing your historical collections. Hear directly from experienced grant assessors and learn what makes a strong application, common mistakes to avoid, and how to develop a realistic project plan and budget. Explore ways to make your collections more accessible, from copyright and permissions to eHive and AI-assisted transcription.

The seminar is designed for members of RAHS Affiliated Societies, as well as anyone interested in applying for grants, developing community history projects, or caring for and sharing a local history collection. All presentations and panel discussions will be practical and accessible, and no specialist knowledge is required. Attendees will have opportunities to ask questions, share feedback, and suggest topics they would like to explore in more depth at future workshops and events.

Grant Applications: Tips For What Works

Session A: 10:30 am to 12:30 pm
Hear from experienced grant assessors about what makes an application stand out and what tips it into the ‘no’ pile. They’ll also bust some common myths about what does and doesn’t get funded. You’ll also learn about two key documents that can set you up for grant success: the project plan and budget and get tips on how to prepare them.

Speakers and topics

• Alison Wishart | Create NSW Museums and History Grants
• Tony Gilmour | Project Plans and Budgets
• Samantha Friend, Carol Liston AO, Angela Phippen | Grants Panel Discussion
• Announcement of the 2026 Create NSW Local History Grants recipients

Sharing Your Collections: Technology, Copyright and Permissions

Session B: 1:30 pm to 3:30 pm
In this session, we’ll cover how to make your collection discoverable using eHive, how AI can speed up transcribing handwritten records, and what free technology is available if your budget doesn’t stretch far. We’ll also cover the practical side of sharing a collection, from copyright and consent through to permissions, so you can share your collections safely.

Speakers and topics

• Carol Liston AO | Sharing Your Historical Collections
• Debbie Sommers | Making Collections Discoverable with eHive
• Michelle Nichols OAM | Using AI to Transcribe Handwritten Records
• Presentation of RAHS Certificates of Achievement and Appreciation