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Community Funding
Pūraka moni mō te Hapori
We provide or administer a range of funding opportunities to help support local intiatives and events to promote community wellbeing and enhance the environment. We can also point you in the right direction of other external funders, either locally or nationally.
Quick links
QLDC funding opportunities
Community Funding Webinar
Find out more about the Event Fund, Community Fund and Waste Minimisation Community Fund and how to use the QLDC Community Funding application platform.
A recording of the webinar, with presentations from all three fund managers, was held on Monday 15 April 2024. See the recording below.
Tips for fundraising
At some point, nearly every community organisation will need to raise money to continue its work in the community, run an event, or carry out a special project. Raising funds, like most activities, is easier if you have a clear idea of what you need to do and how you'll do it.
Funding opportunities open and close at different times throughout the year so it pays to be organised, research well in advance and check funder information regularly.
If you'd like to discuss options for funding your project or event, please contact communityfunding@qldc.govt.nz
Here's a few steps to follow to get you started:
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Gather information about your organisation
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Gather information about your intiative or activity
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Gather key documents (financials, project plans, letters of support, etc)
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Identify suitable funding sources
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Clearly define your initiative’s goals, outcomes, and how they align with the fund’s purpose
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Submit applications and carry out fundraising activities
- Track funding received and evaluate results.
Funding websites and tools
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GenerosityNZ: a digital search facility for funding information in Aotearoa. They have two search tools that connect people to funding opportunities. givME offers access to scholarships and grants for individuals. givUS lists resource schemes for communities, volunteer organisations and clubs. Access to GenerosityNZ is available via our libraries (with a library card). Click here to get started.
- huddl: provides practical tools, training, and connections to help community groups secure funding. Explore funding resources at huddl.nz.
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CommunityNet Aotearoa: an online hub where you can find and share resources designed to strengthen community organisations. Resources include a Funding Application Checklist.
External Community Grants
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Te Tipuria Fund - WellSouth: to help those working to improve local food environments.
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Eco Fund - Otago Regional Council: for projects that benefit the community.
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Ethnic Communities Development Fund - Community Matters: to support the development of established and emerging ethnic communities.
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Like Minds, Like Mine - Community grants to bring to life initiatives that reduce stigma and discrimination and increase social inclusion for people living with mental illness or distress in your local community, iwi, or hapū.
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Harcourts Foundation - Providing grants to reputable community-based organisations which need funding for projects and initiatives designed to benefit as many people as possible.
External Funders
Frequently Asked Questions
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Generally, not-for-profit community groups, charities, and incorporated societies that contribute to community wellbeing, sustainability, heritage, or cultural initiatives can apply. Each fund has specific eligibility criteria, so be sure to check the fund’s guidelines or contact communityfunding@qldc.govt.nz for more details and guidance.
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QLDC funding is generally not available for initiatives that do not primarily benefit the community, commercial or for-profit activities, retrospective costs (expenses already incurred), debt repayment, legal fees, or initiatives that fall outside the scope of the fund’s purpose. Always check the specific fund guidelines for exclusions before applying.
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Funding is typically available for initiatives that benefit the community, such as events, environmental initiatives, social services, arts and culture, and recreation. Some funds also support operational costs, equipment, and capacity-building efforts. Make sure to review the specific fund criteria to confirm eligibility.
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Applications are submitted online through the QLDC Community Funding platform, powered by SmartyGrants. Before applying, gather key documents such as financial statements, initiative plans, and letters of support. If you need help, check out the SmartyGrants applicant help or contact communityfunding@qldc.govt.nz.
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Funding round dates vary depending on the fund. Some are open year-round, while others have specific application periods. Check the relevant fund page for key dates or sign up for funding updates to stay informed.
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Once submitted, applications go through an assessment process, which may involve review panels or funding committees. You may be contacted for further information. Funding decisions are usually communicated within a set timeframe, which will be outlined in the fund’s guidelines.
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Get in contact
If you have any questions, please get in touch with the Community Funding team by emailing:
communityfunding@qldc.govt.nz