Local Board Grants Open for Applications

Applications are now being accepted for the Aotea / Great Barrier Local & Capital Grant project funding round. 

Community groups and initiatives have until 6 October to submit their projects for a chance to secure funding of up to $50,000.

The grant seeks projects that align with the local board's plan priorities, such as marine protection, preservation of island identity, building resilient community groups, bolstering a sustainable local economy and tourism, and environmental protection. 

Emphasis is also placed on zero-waste measures, sustainable housing exploration, protecting the Dark Sky Sanctuary, safe transportation infrastructure, and future-proofing island infrastructure.

Priority will be given to projects that focus on residents' wellbeing, promoting zero-waste messages, empowering communities against emergencies and climate change impacts, supporting mana whenua prosperity, and activities enhancing residents' wellbeing.

Certain applications including those seen as inconsistent with the Aotea/Great Barrier Local Board Plan outcomes and grant programme 'may [be] identified', but as lower priorities the board said.

Applications from groups not based on Aotea Great Barrier Island, will be considered, but given lower priority unless offering significant benefits to the community. 

Those from groups with a sizeable unused surplus, will also be considered, but again with less priority.

The Grant project funding is issued in two distinct rounds. 

The first grant round for this cycle opened on 14 August and will run until 6 October 2023, with the successful applicants being notified on 28 November and funds disbursed on 5 December 2023.

The second round will commence on 15 January 2024 and conclude on 8 March 2024. The results of this round will be announced on 23 April, with grant recipients receiving their funds on 1 May 2024. 

The Aotea / Great Barrier Local and Capital Grant outcomes and funding priorities can be viewed here.

Applications can be filed until October 6, on the council website, here.

A local grant is one of two types of local board grants your project or activity may be eligible for.

Quick response grants are generally for small value grants (up to $2,000) and are offered more frequently.

Got a great idea that supports waste minimisation? Or one that involves community climate action? The regional Waste Minimisation & Innovation Fund closes 31 August, and applications for the Climate Grant: Strategic close 18 September.