Call for Applications: The Peter Rule Fund (New Zealand)

Deadline: 27-Feb-2026

The Peter Rule Fund, managed by the Rule Foundation, provides grants up to $5,000 to support projects benefiting the Rainbow, Takatāpui, and MVPFAFF+ communities. The fund prioritizes initiatives that address identified community needs, support education and research, and enable participation in domestic or international conferences. Applications are project-based, emphasizing tangible outcomes, community impact, and alignment with the Foundation’s priorities.

The Peter Rule Fund supports projects and activities designed to uplift Rainbow, Takatāpui, and MVPFAFF+ communities. The fund emphasizes project-based initiatives rather than operational or individual support, focusing on tangible outcomes, community relevance, and education or research opportunities.

Fund Objectives

• Support projects that address specific community needs.

• Fund education, research, and leadership initiatives.

• Enable participation in domestic and international conferences with priority on Māori, Pacific, transgender, and intersex communities.

• Encourage projects with clear deliverables, timeframes, and resource allocation.

Funding Details

• Standard grants: Up to $5,000 per project.

• Exceptional circumstances: Grants exceeding $5,000 may be considered.

• International travel support: Capped at $3,000 per person. Eligible once every five years for individuals and every two years for groups.

Who is Eligible?

Eligible applicants include:

• Organizations or groups aligned with the Fund’s purpose and priorities.

• Entities able to demonstrate capacity to deliver the proposed project.

• Applicants with a bank account in the organization’s name. Large organizations may act as fund holders for smaller initiatives.

Ineligible Applicants:

• Individuals applying for personal funding.

• Commercial or profit-driven ventures.

• Requests for general operational or core costs.

Why It Matters

The Peter Rule Fund strengthens communities by:

• Supporting initiatives that address unmet needs in Rainbow, Takatāpui, and MVPFAFF+ communities.

• Promoting education, research, and leadership opportunities.

• Enabling knowledge sharing locally and internationally to strengthen community capacity.

How to Apply

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Identify the Project: Ensure it has a specific purpose, measurable outcomes, and aligns with the Fund’s priorities.

2. Prepare Documentation: Include project description, timeframe, budget, and bank account details.

3. Plan for Impact: Demonstrate how outcomes will benefit the community and how knowledge gained will be shared.

4. Consider Travel Needs: If applying for international conferences, ensure the request aligns with fund rules and caps.

5. Submit Application: Applications must be submitted well in advance; ideally 3–4 months prior to the project or event.

6. Deadline: 5pm, Friday 27 February 2026 for the 2025/2026 quarter.

Assessment Criteria:

• Alignment with the Fund’s purposes and priorities.

• Demonstrated community relevance and impact.

• Applicant’s ability to deliver the project successfully.

• Justification for funding, including alternative funding sources.

• Relevance and timing of international travel requests.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Submitting late or last-minute applications.

• Requesting funding for individuals or commercial activities.

• Failing to provide bank account details or project budget.

• Ignoring the Fund’s focus on tangible outcomes and community relevance.

• Not showing how education or conference knowledge will be shared.

FAQ

1. Can individuals apply for the Peter Rule Fund? No, funding is strictly for organizations or projects, not personal requests.

2. What is the maximum grant amount? Up to $5,000, with higher amounts considered only in exceptional circumstances.

3. Can the fund cover operational costs? No, operational costs are ineligible; the fund focuses on project-specific expenses.

4. Are international conferences eligible? Yes, but funding is capped at $3,000 per person and limited in frequency.

5. How far in advance should applications be submitted? Ideally 3–4 months before the event; last-minute applications are rarely considered.

6. Can a large organization apply on behalf of a smaller group? Yes, larger organizations can act as fund holders for smaller initiatives.

7. How is project impact assessed? Applications are evaluated based on alignment with fund priorities, community relevance, feasibility, and potential outcomes.

Conclusion

The Peter Rule Fund provides essential support for projects that uplift Rainbow, Takatāpui, and MVPFAFF+ communities through targeted, community-focused initiatives. By funding education, research, and conference participation, the Fund promotes leadership, capacity-building, and meaningful knowledge sharing. Eligible organizations are encouraged to submit well-prepared applications in advance to maximize funding potential and impact.

For more information, visit Rule Foundation.