Deadline: 13-May-2026
The Community Organisation Grants Scheme (COGS) provides government funding to grassroots not-for-profit organisations to support community wellbeing and development. It prioritizes groups serving marginalized populations and funds operational costs, community activities, and local development projects. Eligibility is limited to organisations with under $2 million annual expenditure.
What is the Community Organisation Grants Scheme?
The Community Organisation Grants Scheme (COGS) is a government-funded program that supports grassroots voluntary and not-for-profit organisations delivering essential services at the community level.
It focuses on strengthening community wellbeing, inclusion, and local development through targeted financial assistance.
Funding Purpose and Scope
COGS funding supports organisations that contribute to:
- Community wellbeing and social support
- Inclusive development initiatives
- Cultural and social equity
- Local engagement and participation
Priority Groups Supported
The scheme prioritizes services for:
- Māori communities
- Women
- Pacific communities
- Ethnic minority groups
- Older people
- Rural and isolated communities
- People with disabilities
- Families, youth, and children
- Unemployed individuals
- Organisations with limited access to other funding
What Funding Can Be Used For
1. Operational Support
- Core expenses of community service delivery
- Day-to-day organisational costs
2. Community Development Activities
3. Community Projects and Events
- Local events that strengthen community connection
- Social inclusion initiatives
- Cultural and engagement activities
Key Objectives
- Strengthen community-led organisations
- Improve social and cultural equity
- Increase participation and inclusion
- Support local leadership development
- Enhance community wellbeing and resilience
Key Concepts Explained
Grassroots Organisations
Small, community-based groups that operate at a local level to address specific needs.
Community Development
Activities that build skills, capacity, and social connections within communities.
Social Equity
Fair access to resources, opportunities, and services for all groups in society.
Who is Eligible?
Eligible Applicants
- Voluntary and not-for-profit organisations
Financial Eligibility
- Must have less than $2 million annual operating expenditure (over the past two years)
Legal Status (for grants over $10,000)
Organisations must be one of the following:
- Incorporated societies
- Charitable trusts
- Registered companies
- Local authorities
- School boards
- Māori trust boards
Ineligible Applicants and Activities
Not Eligible
- Individuals
- Professional fundraisers
Not Funded
- Duplicate services without justification
- Completed activities
- Debt repayment
- Reimbursement of past expenses
- General social functions without community outcomes
- Alcohol-related expenses
Why This Grant Matters
- Sustains small community organisations
- Supports equity and inclusion
- Strengthens local service delivery
- Builds community resilience and participation
- Enables grassroots impact where funding is limited
How Funding Works
Funding Type
- One-off operational and project-based support
Typical Uses
- Running costs
- Community initiatives
- Training and capacity building
- Engagement activities
How to Apply / How It Works
Step-by-Step Process
- Identify organisational needs or community priorities
- Develop a funding proposal
- Ensure eligibility criteria are met
- Prepare supporting documentation
- Submit application before deadline
- Await assessment and decision
What to Include in Your Application
- Organisational background
- Community needs and target groups
- Project or operational plan
- Budget breakdown
- Expected outcomes
Assessment Criteria
Applications are assessed based on:
- Community need and relevance
- Alignment with COGS priorities
- Impact on priority groups
- Organisational capability
- Financial feasibility
Tips for a Strong Application
- Clearly define community benefit
- Focus on priority populations
- Show strong local impact and reach
- Provide a realistic and transparent budget
- Demonstrate organisational stability and need
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying without meeting financial eligibility limits
- Weak justification for funding need
- Submitting duplicate or already completed activities
- Poorly defined outcomes
- Incomplete financial documentation
FAQs
1. What is COGS funding used for?
It supports operational costs, community projects, and development activities.
2. Who can apply?
Non-profit and voluntary community organisations.
3. What is the income limit for eligibility?
Less than $2 million annual operating expenditure.
4. Can individuals apply?
No, only organisations are eligible.
5. What groups are prioritized?
Māori, Pacific communities, youth, elderly, disabled people, and others.
6. Are past expenses funded?
No, reimbursement of past costs is not allowed.
7. What is the main goal of COGS?
To strengthen grassroots organisations and improve community wellbeing.
Conclusion
The Community Organisation Grants Scheme plays a vital role in supporting grassroots non-profits that deliver essential services to local communities. By prioritizing equity, inclusion, and community wellbeing, COGS strengthens the capacity of organisations working with marginalized and underserved populations, ensuring long-term social impact.
For more information, visit Community Matters.
