CFPs: Waitaki Community Group Grants (New Zealand)

The Waitaki District Council Community Group Grants support not-for-profit organisations and community groups delivering one-off projects, programmes, services, and activities that benefit communities across the Waitaki District. The programme provides a total of $75,000 annually, with eligible applicants able to receive funding for approved community initiatives.

Overview of the Community Group Grants

Waitaki District Council is inviting applications from not-for-profit organisations and community groups for the Community Group Grants programme.

The initiative supports local projects that respond to community needs, encourage participation, and strengthen services, facilities, and activities that improve quality of life within the Waitaki District.

The programme focuses on supporting community-led initiatives that demonstrate local commitment and provide meaningful benefits for residents.

Purpose of the Grant Programme

The Community Group Grants aim to:

Support projects addressing identified community needs.
Encourage local community initiatives.
Strengthen community participation and connection.
Support services and activities that benefit residents.
Recognise the diverse needs of Waitaki communities.

Funding Details

The programme provides:

Total annual funding pool: $75,000

Funding is distributed through:

Two funding rounds each year.
Approximately $37,500 available per funding round.

Funding is intended for one-off projects, programmes, services, or activities.

Ongoing operational funding is not supported.

Eligible Expenses

Grant funding may support:

Project-related operational costs.
Tutor or facilitator fees.
Volunteer expenses.
Specific equipment and resources.
Printing and publicity materials.
Educational resources.
Transport costs where disability or disadvantage is involved.
Minor facility development projects that do not involve maintenance.

Ineligible Expenses

Funding cannot be used for:

Salaries or wages.
Ongoing operational costs.
Land or building purchases.
Major capital projects.
Fundraising expenses.
Debt repayment.
Vehicle purchases.
Overseas travel.
Medical expenses.
Council rates.
Facility maintenance.
Uniforms.
Other excluded costs listed in the grant criteria.

Eligible Applicants

Applications are open to:

Not-for-profit groups based in the Waitaki District.
Organisations delivering services that benefit the Waitaki community or specific local areas.

Applicants must demonstrate:

A clear community need for the project.
Local benefit and impact.
Contribution of their own resources through funding, volunteers, or other support.
That the project would not proceed without Council assistance.
Ability to meet accountability requirements.

School and Preschool Eligibility

Schools and preschools may apply only for projects that:

Include community-use components.
Demonstrate community financial contribution.
Provide evidence of community benefit.
Submit project-specific financial information.

Who Cannot Apply?

The programme does not support:

Individuals.
Organisations primarily funded by Central Government.
Groups requiring significant capital funding.
Applicants that do not meet grant eligibility requirements.

Types of Projects Supported

Supported initiatives may include:

Community programmes.
Educational activities.
Local services.
Community events.
Volunteer-led activities.
Projects improving access and participation.
Activities supporting disadvantaged or vulnerable community members.

Assessment Criteria

Applications are reviewed by the Community Group Grants Committee, a sub-committee of Waitaki District Council.

Applications are assessed based on:

Compliance with grant requirements.
Demonstrated community need.
Previous Council funding history and accountability.
Ability to successfully deliver the project.
Availability of other funding sources.
Fundraising efforts and community contributions.
Feedback from relevant government or community organisations.

Application Requirements

Applicants should demonstrate:

The purpose and expected outcomes of the project.
How the project benefits the community.
A realistic budget.
Other financial or in-kind contributions.
The organisation’s ability to complete the activity.

Responsibilities of Successful Applicants

Successful grant recipients must:

Use funding only for the approved purpose.
Spend funds within six months of receiving notification.
Acknowledge Waitaki District Council support in promotional materials.
Submit an accountability report.
Provide receipts showing how funds were spent.
Explain the community benefits achieved through the project.

Tips for Preparing a Strong Application

Applicants can improve their proposals by:

Clearly explaining the community issue being addressed.
Showing measurable benefits for local residents.
Demonstrating community involvement.
Providing a detailed and realistic budget.
Highlighting volunteer contributions and partnerships.
Explaining why Council funding is essential.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Waitaki District Council Community Group Grant?

It is a funding programme supporting not-for-profit community groups delivering one-off projects and activities that benefit the Waitaki District.

How much funding is available?

The programme provides a total of $75,000 per year, distributed across two funding rounds.

Can organisations receive ongoing operational funding?

No. The grant supports one-off projects and activities rather than ongoing operational expenses.

Who can apply?

Eligible applicants include not-for-profit groups based in Waitaki District or organisations delivering services that benefit the district.

Can schools apply?

Yes, but only for projects with clear community use, community contribution, and demonstrated local benefit.

What reporting is required after receiving funding?

Recipients must provide an accountability report, receipts, and information about the community outcomes achieved.

Conclusion

The Waitaki District Council Community Group Grants provide valuable support for local organisations delivering community-focused projects and services. By funding initiatives that address local needs, encourage participation, and strengthen community connections, the programme helps build a more inclusive and resilient Waitaki District.