Deadline: 19-Apr-2026
The ECO Fund 2026 offers $919,800 in grants to support environmental protection and biodiversity projects in Otago. It funds community groups, landholders, and organizations working on conservation, erosion control, pest management, and ecological restoration. Grants range from up to $15,000 to $150,000, depending on the category and project scale.
What Is the ECO Fund?
The ECO Fund is a regional environmental grant program designed to support projects that protect, enhance, and promote Otago’s natural environment.
It focuses on native biodiversity conservation, community-led environmental action, sustainable land management, and ecological restoration and education. The fund supports both large-scale conservation initiatives and small community projects.
ECO Fund 2026: Funding Overview
Total Funding Available
$919,800 allocated for 2026
Funding Categories Breakdown
1. Scaling Up for Biodiversity
Total pool: $306,600
Grant size: $50,000 – $150,000
Purpose:
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Large-scale biodiversity protection
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Supporting experienced groups to expand impact
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Preparing projects for future major funding opportunities
2. General Environmental Projects
Total pool: $306,600
Grant size: Up to $50,000
Purpose:
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On-ground conservation work
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Environmental education programs
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Community awareness initiatives
3. Sustained Rabbit Management
Total pool: $102,200
Grant size: Up to $50,000
Purpose:
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Long-term rabbit population control
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Reducing environmental damage caused by pests
4. Biodiversity Enhancement on Protected Private Land
Total pool: $102,200
Grant size: Up to $15,000
Purpose:
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Conservation on privately protected land
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Habitat restoration and maintenance
5. Hill Country Erosion Management
Total pool: $51,100
Grant size: Up to $15,000
Purpose:
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Soil erosion prevention
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Stabilizing vulnerable landscapes
6. Weed Removal and Revegetation
Total pool: $51,100
Grant size: Up to $15,000
Purpose:
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Removing invasive species
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Replanting native vegetation
Key Environmental Focus Areas (Explained)
Native Biodiversity Protection
Preserving indigenous plant and animal species and restoring natural ecosystems.
Community-Led Conservation
Projects initiated and run by local groups to improve environmental outcomes.
Pest Management (Rabbit Control)
Rabbits can cause vegetation loss, soil degradation, and ecosystem imbalance. Managing them helps restore ecological health.
Erosion Control
Important for preventing soil loss, protecting waterways, and maintaining agricultural productivity.
Revegetation
Replanting native species to restore habitats, improve biodiversity, and strengthen ecosystems.
Who Is Eligible?
The ECO Fund supports a wide range of applicants.
Eligible Entities
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Incorporated societies
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Registered charitable trusts
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Community and resident groups
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Unincorporated groups
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Educational institutions
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Government agencies and territorial authorities
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State-owned enterprises
Land-Based Applicants
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Private landholders
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Groups of landowners
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Māori landowners (customary or freehold land)
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Owners of protected private land
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Crown land reserved for Māori
Why the ECO Fund Matters
Environmental Impact
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Protects native ecosystems
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Restores degraded landscapes
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Supports sustainable land use
Community Benefits
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Empowers local communities
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Encourages environmental stewardship
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Builds long-term conservation capacity
Economic and Long-Term Value
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Prevents costly environmental damage
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Enhances land productivity
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Supports eco-tourism and sustainability
How to Apply for ECO Fund 2026
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Define Your Project
Identify the environmental issue and set clear goals and outcomes.
Step 2: Choose the Right Category
Match your project with the appropriate funding stream and ensure your funding request aligns with limits.
Step 3: Prepare Documentation
Include a project plan, budget breakdown, timeline, and expected environmental impact.
Step 4: Demonstrate Value
Show measurable outcomes and highlight community involvement.
Step 5: Submit Application
Follow official submission guidelines and ensure all details are accurate and complete.
Step 6: Await Review
Applications are assessed based on impact, feasibility, and alignment with fund goals.
Tips for a Successful Application
Best Practices
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Be clear and specific about outcomes
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Use measurable indicators (e.g., hectares restored, species protected)
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Align with biodiversity and sustainability goals
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Show collaboration with local communities
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Vague project descriptions
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Unrealistic budgets or timelines
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Applying under the wrong category
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Lack of measurable impact
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Incomplete documentation
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the maximum grant available?
Up to $150,000 for large biodiversity projects, up to $50,000 for general and rabbit management, and up to $15,000 for smaller land-based initiatives.
2. Can individuals apply?
Yes, private landholders and landowner groups are eligible under certain categories.
3. Are small community projects eligible?
Yes, the General category supports small to medium-sized community initiatives.
4. What types of projects are prioritized?
Projects that protect native biodiversity, restore ecosystems, deliver measurable environmental impact, and engage local communities.
5. Is funding available for educational programs?
Yes, environmental education and awareness initiatives are supported under the General category.
6. Can Māori landowners apply?
Yes, including those with customary land, freehold land, and Crown land reserved for Māori.
7. Do projects need to be large-scale?
No, both small and large projects are encouraged if they contribute meaningfully to the environment.
Final Takeaway
The ECO Fund 2026 is a significant opportunity for environmental action in Otago, offering nearly $1 million in funding across diverse conservation categories. Whether you are a community group, landholder, or organization, the fund supports projects that deliver real, measurable environmental benefits.
To succeed, focus on clear environmental impact, strong planning, and alignment with biodiversity and sustainability goals. Well-prepared applications that demonstrate practical outcomes and community value have the highest chance of securing funding.
For more information, visit Otago Regional Council.