Deadline: 22-Feb-2026
The Thriving Communities Grant by Auckland Council supports community-led initiatives that enhance wellbeing, inclusion, and environmental care. Grants of up to $30,000 fund regional projects aligned with Ngā Hapori Momoho – Thriving Communities plan, prioritising equitable outcomes for Māori, financial resilience, health, and intercultural connection. Eligible applicants include not-for-profits, iwi/Māori trusts, and charitable organisations.
Overview
The Thriving Communities Grant is designed to empower community-led initiatives that strengthen social connection, wellbeing, and environmental stewardship across Auckland. It promotes projects that address the most pressing issues in communities, creating long-term positive impact.
Key Objectives
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Strengthen Community Wellbeing: Initiatives that improve physical, mental, and social health for Aucklanders.
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Promote Inclusion and Belonging: Support projects that celebrate diversity and foster connections across cultures, ages, and communities.
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Environmental Care: Fund activities that take action on local environmental issues.
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Equity and Māori Outcomes: Honour Te Tiriti o Waitangi and enable Mana Māori Motuhake by supporting by-Māori, for-Māori solutions that empower whānau.
Funding Details
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Maximum Grant Amount: $30,000 per project.
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Total Funding Pool: $300,000 available.
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Scope: Regional projects that operate across multiple locations and are accessible to a wide audience.
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Priority: New initiatives or organisations that have not received recent funding to encourage innovative solutions.
Eligible Activities
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Programs enhancing financial security, wellbeing, and health.
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Initiatives promoting intercultural engagement and community connection.
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Projects addressing local or regional environmental issues.
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Initiatives led by whānau Māori or by-Māori, for-Māori organisations that strengthen resilience and confidence.
Who is Eligible?
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Not-for-profit organisations with a formal legal structure.
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Iwi or Māori trusts implementing community-focused projects.
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Charitable or voluntary groups working independently or in partnership with an umbrella organisation capable of managing funding.
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Priority is given to new applicants or emerging initiatives to foster innovation and diversity in community support.
How to Apply
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Identify Project Alignment: Ensure your project addresses one or more funding priorities: wellbeing, financial resilience, intercultural connection, or environmental action.
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Prepare Proposal: Include objectives, expected impact, target community, project timeline, and budget.
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Demonstrate Regional Reach: Projects must benefit communities across multiple Auckland locations or have broad accessibility.
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Show Māori Engagement: If applicable, demonstrate alignment with Māori outcomes, including consultation, participation, or leadership by whānau Māori.
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Submit Application: Complete and submit through the Auckland Council grant portal before the deadline.
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Assessment: Applications are evaluated based on community impact, innovation, inclusivity, and alignment with the Thriving Communities vision.
Tips for Success
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Clearly articulate the long-term impact of your project.
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Highlight community involvement and partnerships.
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Ensure budget transparency with realistic allocations.
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Show how your project supports Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles and Māori outcomes if relevant.
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Avoid overlap with ineligible or unrelated activities that do not address regional priorities.
FAQ
1. Who can apply for the Thriving Communities Grant?
Not-for-profits, iwi or Māori trusts, charitable or voluntary groups with a formal legal structure, or those partnering with an umbrella organisation.
2. What types of projects are funded?
Community-led initiatives that improve wellbeing, inclusion, financial security, intercultural connection, and environmental care.
3. How much funding can a project receive?
Up to $30,000 per project from a total pool of $300,000.
4. Are regional projects required?
Yes, projects must operate across multiple Auckland locations or benefit a wide range of communities.
5. Is there a preference for certain applicants?
Yes, priority is given to organisations that have not received recent funding, encouraging new and innovative initiatives.
6. How does the fund support Māori outcomes?
Projects that enable Mana Māori Motuhake and support by-Māori, for-Māori solutions, are prioritised and scored positively.
7. What is the expected impact of funded projects?
Projects should create meaningful, long-term community benefits in wellbeing, inclusion, cultural connection, and environmental sustainability.
Conclusion
The Auckland Thriving Communities Grant is a strategic funding opportunity that enables community organisations to develop inclusive, impactful, and sustainable projects. By prioritising wellbeing, equity, and regional engagement, the grant strengthens social cohesion, empowers whānau Māori, and fosters a more connected and resilient Auckland.
For more information, visit Auckland Council.
