The Creative Communities Fund supports local arts projects by increasing participation, diversity, and access to arts activities in Southland communities. It funds small to medium arts initiatives, with most grants typically under $2,000. The program is designed to strengthen community engagement with creative and cultural activities across New Zealand.

Creative Communities Fund Overview

The Creative Communities Fund supports local arts development and community participation in creative activities.

It is designed to expand access to arts opportunities and encourage diverse cultural expression at the community level.

The fund aims to strengthen engagement with arts across Southland District Council (SDC) communities and wider New Zealand.

Purpose of the Fund

The Creative Communities Fund focuses on three main objectives:

Increase participation in arts at a local level
Expand the range and diversity of arts available to communities
Create opportunities for community engagement in arts activities

Key idea: Community arts development
This fund supports grassroots creative projects that bring people together through artistic expression, cultural activities, and local events.

Funding Information

There is no strict maximum funding limit; however, most grants are small-scale.

Typical grant size: under $2,000
Funding depends on project scope, impact, and community benefit

Eligible Costs

The fund can be used for direct project-related expenses such as:

Materials for arts activities or programs
Venue or equipment hire
Short-term personnel and administrative costs
Promotion and publicity of arts events or activities

Eligible Projects

The fund supports community-based arts initiatives such as:

Local arts workshops and community art programs
Cultural events, performances, and exhibitions
Collaborative community arts projects

It also includes some broader or indirect eligibility considerations:

Fundraising activities with an arts focus
Development of community arts spaces (e.g., galleries, theatres, marae)
Local council-led arts projects
Projects with a small arts component within broader themes like education, health, or environment
School arts projects that are not part of core curriculum funding or institutional budgets

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following conditions:

Individuals must be New Zealand citizens or permanent residents
Groups must be based in New Zealand
Previous recipients must submit a project report before applying again (unless the project is ongoing)
Projects must be completed within 12 months of funding approval

Ineligible Costs

The fund does not cover:

Ongoing operational or administrative costs unrelated to the project
Projects that have already started or been completed
Travel costs for attending external performances or exhibitions
Purchase of equipment (computers, cameras, instruments, costumes, lighting, uniforms)
Entry fees for competitions, contests, or exams
Prize money, awards, or judges’ fees
Royalties
Purchase of artworks for collections
Debt repayment or interest on debt

Application Requirements

Applicants must submit supporting documentation including:

Proof of bank account details (deposit slip or bank statement)
Latest financial accounts or income/expenditure statement
Relevant quotes for project costs
Supporting documents such as CVs, letters of support, or work samples

How the Fund Works (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Identify your arts project
Choose a community-focused arts activity or program.

Step 2: Prepare project details
Define objectives, audience, timeline, and expected outcomes.

Step 3: Calculate costs
Include materials, venue hire, staffing (short-term), and promotion.

Step 4: Collect documents
Prepare financial statements, bank verification, and supporting evidence.

Step 5: Submit application
Apply with full documentation before the deadline.

Step 6: Funding decision
Applications are assessed based on community benefit, creativity, and feasibility.

Why the Creative Communities Fund Matters

This fund supports the cultural and creative development of local communities by:

Increasing access to arts participation
Supporting local artists and cultural groups
Encouraging community collaboration and creativity
Strengthening cultural identity and expression
Building inclusive arts experiences

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Applying for equipment purchases (not eligible)
Submitting projects already started or completed
Including travel-only arts activities
Missing financial documentation
Using funding for ongoing operational costs

Tips for a Strong Application

Clearly define community impact
Focus on participation and engagement outcomes
Provide realistic and detailed budgets
Include strong supporting documents
Ensure project can be completed within 12 months

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Who can apply for the Creative Communities Fund?

New Zealand citizens, permanent residents, and NZ-based community groups.

2. What is the typical grant amount?

Most grants are under $2,000 depending on project size and impact.

3. Can schools apply?

Yes, but only for arts projects not covered by normal curriculum or school operating budgets.

4. Can I buy equipment with this funding?

No, equipment such as instruments, cameras, or computers is not eligible.

5. How long do I have to complete a project?

Projects must be completed within 12 months of funding approval.

6. Can I apply again if I already received funding?

Yes, but only after submitting a completion report for the previous project.

7. Are travel costs covered?

No, travel costs for performances or exhibitions are not eligible.

Conclusion

The Creative Communities Fund is a key local arts funding initiative that strengthens creative participation and cultural engagement across communities. By supporting small-scale arts projects, it encourages inclusion, diversity, and active participation in the arts.

It plays an important role in building vibrant, creative, and connected communities through accessible funding for local arts initiatives.