Deadline: 09-Jan-2026
The Tairāwhiti Feasibility Fund provides up to $25,000 to support early-stage ideas, helping applicants assess viability and prepare for implementation or investment. Focused on the Tairāwhiti region, the fund backs feasibility studies, business case development, and preparatory work for projects with potential economic, social, or community impact. This initiative aims to stimulate innovation, unlock new industries, and strengthen long-term regional resilience.
Overview
The Feasibility Fund is designed to help applicants turn early-stage ideas into actionable projects that can benefit the Tairāwhiti region. By funding feasibility studies, business case preparation, and capital planning, the fund supports innovation, investment readiness, and economic growth.
Purpose of the Fund
The fund aims to:
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Evaluate the viability of new concepts
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Encourage investment and development in Tairāwhiti
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Support innovation and entrepreneurship
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Contribute to long-term economic resilience
Who Is Eligible?
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
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Operate as a recognised legal entity
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Have a clear connection to the Tairāwhiti region
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Demonstrate that the project addresses uncertainty around viability
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Show potential benefits for the wider community
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Provide financial contribution and a detailed quote or proposal for the work
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Declare any outstanding debt or additional funding related to the project
Ineligible activities include:
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Routine business operations
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Projects that do not provide community or regional impact
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Concepts that lack viability assessment or clear planning
Funding Details
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Maximum grant amount: $25,000
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Funding is intended for feasibility studies, business case development, or preparatory planning
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Funds cannot be used for normal organizational operations or unrelated expenses
Why It Matters
The Feasibility Fund enables:
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Assessment of innovative ideas with uncertain viability
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Development of business cases or plans that attract further investment
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Support for projects that can create new industries, employment, or economic opportunities
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Strengthening of regional capacity and resilience
How to Apply
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
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Ensure your organisation is a recognised legal entity
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Demonstrate connection to the Tairāwhiti region
Step 2: Prepare Proposal
Include:
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Description of the idea and its potential impact
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Detailed plan for feasibility work
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Expected outcomes and benefits for the community
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Budget and quote for proposed work
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Declaration of any existing debt or external funding
Step 3: Submit Application
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Follow fund guidelines and deadlines
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Ensure all supporting documentation is complete and accurate
Step 4: Review and Decision
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Applications evaluated based on viability, potential impact, alignment with priorities, and transparency
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Successful applicants receive grant funding to conduct feasibility work
Tips for Applicants
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Clearly articulate the uncertainty your project addresses
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Emphasize community and regional benefits
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Include detailed, realistic budgets and timelines
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Demonstrate readiness for next steps post-feasibility
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Requesting funds for routine operations or existing business activities
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Failing to demonstrate connection to Tairāwhiti
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Providing incomplete budget, proposal, or financial disclosures
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Submitting ideas without clear feasibility objectives
FAQ
1. What is the maximum grant amount?
Up to $25,000 per project.
2. Can individuals apply?
No, applicants must operate as a recognised legal entity.
3. What types of projects are eligible?
Early-stage ideas requiring feasibility studies, business cases, or preparatory work with potential community or regional impact.
4. Is ongoing business activity eligible?
No, the fund does not support routine operations.
5. Must the project benefit the Tairāwhiti region?
Yes, projects must have a strong connection and positive impact on the region.
6. Do applicants need to provide co-funding?
Applicants should demonstrate the ability to contribute financially to the project.
7. Are proposals with existing debt eligible?
Yes, but all outstanding debt and additional funding must be declared transparently.
Conclusion
The Tairāwhiti Feasibility Fund is a strategic opportunity to evaluate and prepare early-stage ideas for implementation and investment. By supporting feasibility studies and business case development, the fund helps unlock innovation, stimulate economic growth, and strengthen the region’s long-term resilience and prosperity.
For more information, visit Trust Tāirawhiti.