Deadline: 30-Sep-2026
The Community Partnership Fund – Ardlussa provides $6,522 per year to support community-led projects that meet local needs and priorities. It funds not-for-profit initiatives delivered by community groups or individuals on a case-by-case basis, with a focus on community wellbeing and alignment with the Ardlussa Community Board Plan.
What Is the Ardlussa Community Partnership Fund?
The Ardlussa Community Partnership Fund is a local funding scheme designed to support community-led development.
It enables the Ardlussa Community Board to allocate funding directly to projects that reflect local needs, aspirations, and long-term community goals.
The fund is guided by principles of community participation, local decision-making, and sustainable development.
Purpose of the Fund
The fund aims to:
- Support community-led development and decision-making
- Fund projects that meet local needs and aspirations
- Strengthen community wellbeing and participation
- Align initiatives with the Ardlussa Community Board Plan
- Improve access to services, activities, and community opportunities
Funding Information
- Total annual fund: $6,522
- Maximum request: No fixed cap
- Co-funding: Preferred (assessed case by case)
- Funding model: Flexible, based on community need
Eligible Applicants
Applications may be made by:
- Not-for-profit community groups
- Incorporated or informal community organisations
- Individuals (considered on a case-by-case basis)
Important Notes
- Groups do not need to be a legal entity
- All applications must demonstrate community benefit
- Funding must be for non-profit purposes
Eligible Project Types
Projects must benefit the wider Ardlussa community and align with the Community Board Plan.
1. Community Development Projects
- Local events and activities
- Community engagement initiatives
- Social wellbeing programs
2. Infrastructure and Facilities
- Small-scale community infrastructure
- Improvements to shared spaces
- Local facility enhancements
3. Wellbeing and Participation Projects
- Health and wellbeing initiatives
- Projects increasing community participation
- Programs supporting inclusion and connection
4. Local Improvement Projects
- Small community-led development initiatives
- Projects addressing local priorities
- Initiatives improving community services
Capital Works Requirements
If applying for capital works funding:
- Two quotes are preferable
- If only one quote is available, a written explanation is required
Application Features
- No funding cap per application
- Case-by-case assessment of co-funding
- Applicants may be invited to present to the board
- Flexible eligibility including individuals
Community Board Plan Alignment
Priority is given to projects that:
- Directly benefit the wider Ardlussa community
- Align with Community Board Plan outcomes
- Strengthen community wellbeing and cohesion
- Improve access to local services and opportunities
- Support sustainable community development
Why This Fund Matters
The Ardlussa Community Partnership Fund helps:
- Empower local decision-making
- Support small but meaningful community projects
- Strengthen social connections in the region
- Improve local services and infrastructure
- Encourage inclusive and participatory development
How to Apply
Applicants generally:
- Identify a local community need
- Design a not-for-profit project
- Check alignment with Community Board Plan
- Prepare budget and funding request
- Obtain quotes if required for capital works
- Submit application to the Community Board
- Attend presentation if invited
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying without clear community benefit
- Not aligning with Community Board Plan priorities
- Missing quotes for capital works projects
- Poor justification of project need
- Submitting incomplete or unclear budgets
Tips for a Strong Application
- Clearly show community impact and benefit
- Align project with Ardlussa priorities
- Include co-funding where possible
- Demonstrate community support and involvement
- Provide clear, realistic costing
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the Ardlussa Community Partnership Fund?
It is a local funding program that supports community-led initiatives through the Ardlussa Community Board.
How much funding is available?
$6,522 per year, with no fixed cap per project.
Who can apply?
Community groups, not-for-profits, and individuals (case-by-case basis).
Is the funding restricted to nonprofits?
Yes, funding must be for non-profit purposes.
Are individuals eligible?
Yes, but applications are assessed individually.
Are capital works allowed?
Yes, but two quotes are preferred or an explanation is required.
Do I need to present my project?
Applicants may be invited to speak to the Community Board.
Conclusion
The Ardlussa Community Partnership Fund supports flexible, locally driven initiatives that strengthen community wellbeing, improve services, and promote sustainable development. By enabling direct community participation in funding decisions, it ensures that resources are allocated to projects that reflect real local needs and priorities.
For more information, visit Southland District Council.