Deadline : 3 September 2026
The Creative Communities Scheme (CCS) supports arts projects that increase community participation, celebrate cultural diversity, and encourage young people under 18 to engage in creative activities across the Waitaki District, New Zealand. Applications must be submitted by 03 September 2026.
Overview of the Creative Communities Scheme
The Creative Communities Scheme is inviting applications for community-based arts projects that strengthen local creativity and cultural participation within the Waitaki District.
The scheme is delivered through a partnership between Creative New Zealand and local authorities to provide funding for arts activities that create meaningful community benefits.
Funding decisions are made by assessment panels established by participating local authorities, with members representing the communities they serve.
Purpose of the Scheme
The programme aims to:
- Increase community participation in arts activities.
- Support diverse cultural traditions and creative practices.
- Encourage young people under 18 to participate in the arts.
- Strengthen local arts initiatives.
- Create opportunities for communities to connect through creativity.
Key Objectives
Eligible projects must support at least one of the following objectives:
Community Participation in Arts
Projects should provide opportunities for people in the Waitaki District to actively participate in artistic activities.
Examples may include:
- Community workshops.
- Creative classes.
- Public art activities.
- Local performances.
- Community-led arts projects.
Supporting Cultural Diversity
Projects may celebrate and promote diverse arts and cultural traditions that contribute to the identity of local communities.
This may include:
- Cultural celebrations.
- Traditional arts.
- Community storytelling.
- Heritage-based creative activities.
Engaging Young People in Arts
Projects can support creative participation among young people under 18 years of age.
Activities may include:
- Youth arts programmes.
- Creative workshops.
- School-community arts projects.
- Performance and exhibition opportunities.
Eligible Applicants
Applications are open to:
- Individuals.
- Community groups.
- Arts organisations.
- Local creative practitioners.
Individual applicants must be:
- New Zealand citizens, or
- New Zealand permanent residents.
Project Eligibility Requirements
Supported projects must:
- Take place within the Waitaki District.
- Provide a clear benefit to the local community.
- Be completed within 12 months of funding approval.
- Begin only after funding approval is received.
Projects must not have already started or been completed before approval.
Ineligible Projects
Projects are not eligible if they:
- Have already received funding through another Creative New Zealand arts funding programme.
- Seek duplicate funding for the same project.
- Were completed before funding approval.
- Do not provide community arts benefits.
Previous Grant Recipients
Applicants who have previously received Creative Communities Scheme funding must:
- Complete required reporting for previous projects before applying again.
- Provide outstanding project reports unless their previous project is still in progress.
Application Requirements
Applicants should demonstrate:
- The purpose and artistic value of the project.
- How the project benefits the Waitaki community.
- How it supports one or more Creative Communities Scheme objectives.
- The expected participation and community outcomes.
Assessment Process
Applications are reviewed by an assessment panel established by the local authority.
The panel considers:
- Alignment with Creative Communities Scheme objectives.
- Community benefit.
- Opportunities for participation.
- Support for cultural diversity.
- Engagement of young people.
- Quality and feasibility of the proposed activity.
Tips for Applicants
Applicants can strengthen their proposals by:
- Clearly explaining the community need for the project.
- Highlighting participation opportunities.
- Describing how different communities will be involved.
- Including young people’s engagement where relevant.
- Demonstrating realistic planning and delivery timelines.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Creative Communities Scheme?
It is a funding programme supporting local arts projects that encourage participation, creativity, and cultural expression.
Who can apply?
Individuals and groups can apply. Individual applicants must be New Zealand citizens or permanent residents.
Where must projects take place?
Projects must be delivered within the Waitaki District.
How long do funded projects have to be completed?
Projects must be completed within 12 months of funding approval.
Can a project receive funding from another Creative New Zealand programme?
No. Projects already funded through another Creative New Zealand programme are not eligible for CCS funding.
What is the application deadline?
The deadline for applications is 03 September 2026.
Conclusion
The Creative Communities Scheme provides an opportunity for Waitaki District residents and organisations to develop creative projects that bring communities together, celebrate cultural diversity, and inspire artistic participation. Through supporting local arts activities, the programme helps strengthen community connections and expand access to creative experiences.
For more information, visit Waitaki District Council.
