Deadline: 04-Sep-2025
The Creative Communities Scheme (CCS) provides funding support for local arts projects that foster community engagement, celebrate cultural diversity, and encourage youth participation.
Projects must focus on at least one of the following: Access and participation, which creates opportunities for local communities to engage with and participate in local arts activities such as performances, workshops, exhibitions, festivals, public art projects, and artist residencies; Diversity, which supports the artistic and cultural traditions of Māori, Pasifika, migrant, LGBTQIA+, and disability communities; and Young people, which enables children and youth under 18 years to engage with the arts through collaborative projects, exhibitions, music, writing, and workshops.
The CCS is open to individuals who are New Zealand citizens or permanent residents, as well as groups based in New Zealand. Applicants must ensure their project takes place in the city or district of application, is completed within 12 months of approval, and has not started before funding is granted. Most grants are under $5,000, with two to four funding rounds conducted annually by local councils.
Eligible costs include materials, venue or equipment hire, short-term personnel and administrative costs, promotion, and reasonable food for artists, participants, and audiences. However, CCS does not cover ongoing administration, travel, fundraising, facility development, debt, or projects already started. Applications are assessed locally by committees with experience in arts and community work.
Applicants must complete the application form carefully, outlining project details, funding criteria, chosen artform, activity type, cultural tradition, the idea behind the project, processes, people involved, and a clear budget. Supporting material such as previous work, letters of support, and community endorsements strengthens applications.
For more information, visit Waimate District Council.