Deadline: 30-Sep-2026
The Community Partnership Fund – Fiordland provides $45,000 per year (across 3 rounds) to support community-led projects in Fiordland, New Zealand. Grants range from $500 to $5,000 and fund not-for-profit community initiatives aligned with local wellbeing outcomes and community development priorities.
What Is the Fiordland Community Partnership Fund?
The Fiordland Community Partnership Fund is a local funding program managed by the Southland District Council.
It supports community-led development by giving local boards the ability to fund projects that meet the needs, aspirations, and priorities of Fiordland communities.
The fund is designed to strengthen social, economic, environmental, and cultural wellbeing through grassroots initiatives.
Purpose of the Fund
The fund aims to:
- Support community-led decision-making
- Strengthen local wellbeing across four key areas:
- Social wellbeing
- Economic wellbeing
- Environmental wellbeing
- Cultural wellbeing
- Enable locally identified solutions
- Improve community resilience and participation
- Support sustainable long-term development in Fiordland
Funding Information
- Total annual fund: $45,000
- Funding rounds: Distributed across 3 rounds per year
- Grant range per project: $500 – $5,000
- Co-funding: Required (self-contribution or fundraising expected)
Eligible Applicants
Applications are open to:
- Not-for-profit community organisations
- Incorporated organisations
- Informal community groups
Important Requirement
- Groups must have access to a valid bank account (own or approved shared account)
- Legal incorporation is not required
Eligible Projects
Projects must align with the Fiordland Community Futures Plan or the four wellbeing outcomes.
1. Community Development Projects
- Local events and activities
- Social connection initiatives
- Community engagement programs
2. Wellbeing Initiatives
- Projects supporting mental, social, or physical wellbeing
- Programs improving community participation
3. Environmental Projects
- Conservation and biodiversity initiatives
- Sustainability and climate resilience projects
- Local environmental restoration activities
4. Cultural and Economic Projects
- Cultural heritage preservation
- Community arts and identity projects
- Small-scale local economic development
Project Requirements
Applicants must:
- Show alignment with Fiordland Community Futures Plan
- Demonstrate community need and benefit
- Provide evidence of self-contribution or fundraising
- Submit previous accountability reports (if applicable)
- Provide multiple quotes for capital works projects
Ineligible Funding Uses
The fund does not support:
- Individual applications
- Salaries or wages
- Room hire costs
- Catering expenses
- Projects that generate private financial gain (pecuniary benefit)
Capital Works Requirements
If applying for infrastructure or physical works:
- More than one quote must be provided where possible
- Justification is required if only one quote is available
Application Process
Applicants typically:
- Identify a community need in Fiordland
- Design a project aligned with wellbeing outcomes
- Secure co-funding or community contribution
- Gather quotes (if capital works involved)
- Ensure bank account eligibility
- Submit application to Southland District Council
- Attend discussion if requested
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying without community benefit alignment
- Missing required co-funding contribution
- Submitting incomplete financial documentation
- Applying for ineligible costs (salaries, catering, room hire)
- Lack of quotes for capital works projects
Tips for a Strong Application
- Clearly link project to wellbeing outcomes
- Show strong community support and involvement
- Provide realistic and transparent budgeting
- Demonstrate sustainability beyond funding period
- Highlight environmental and cultural benefits where relevant
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the Fiordland Community Partnership Fund?
It is a local council funding program supporting community-led initiatives in Fiordland, New Zealand.
How much funding is available?
$45,000 annually, with grants ranging from $500 to $5,000.
Who can apply?
Not-for-profit organisations and informal community groups with access to a bank account.
Can individuals apply?
No, individuals are not eligible.
Is co-funding required?
Yes, applicants must show self-contribution or fundraising.
What costs are not covered?
Salaries, catering, room hire, and profit-making activities.
Are capital works allowed?
Yes, but multiple quotes are required where possible.
Conclusion
The Fiordland Community Partnership Fund empowers local communities to deliver small but meaningful projects that improve wellbeing, strengthen local identity, and support sustainable development. By prioritizing community-led decision-making, it ensures that funding directly addresses the needs and aspirations of Fiordland residents.
For more information, visit Southland District Council.