Deadline: 10-Oct-2025
Applications are now open for the CLNZ Contestable Fund Grant Program to support projects that strengthen the writing and publishing sector in New Zealand Aotearoa.
Projects may include those that develop the professional skills of writers, including those who write for an educational audience; seek to grow export markets for New Zealand Aotearoa, published content; demonstrate innovation in the creation and distribution of New Zealand Aotearoa published content and make a positive impact on the community; diverse content that encourages Māori, Pacifica, and other minority and ethnic groups to submit within New Zealand Aotearoa; and use online platforms to enhance the profile of New Zealand Aotearoa publishing and/or published content, including to international/export markets.
The Cultural Fund invests in people and projects that meet its objectives to protect writers and publishers’ ability to earn revenue from their works; support the creation and production of new works and assist the commercial success of New Zealand Aotearoa works; and grow the number of works created and skills in the industry.
The CLNZ Cultural Fund derives its revenue from a 2% share of domestic licensing income and overseas revenue that is non-title specific. For 2025, an allocation of $75,000 is available, with the number of successful projects determined by the merits of the applications received. Applicants may apply as individuals or organisations, and collaborative applications are welcome, provided a lead applicant is named.
Eligibility requires applicants to be New Zealand citizens, permanent residents, or New Zealand-based organisations. Multiple applications are allowed, but transparency is required, with all submissions being original work written by the entrant. AI may be used only as a tool to support drafting and editing, not for text generation. Cultural integrity must be respected, especially in projects involving mātauranga Māori or other cultural knowledge systems.
Applications must be submitted online between 10 am on Friday, 12th September 2025, and 4 pm on Friday, 10th October 2025. Supporting documents, such as a CV, sample of work, project budget, or letters of support, must be uploaded in PDF format. Applicants will also be required to provide project details, a 12-month project plan, and a breakdown of costs. Successful recipients will be contacted directly, and announcements will be made in November through the CLNZ website and social media.
For more information, visit CLNZ.
