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This guide is designed to help your community group or not-for-profit organisation apply for funding.

There are lots of different funding organisations that provide grants to community and not-for-profit organisations. It can be challenging to find the funder or funders who are most likely to be interested in supporting your work.

This resource will provide you with information on funders, what they are looking for, the types of funding available and how to identify which funders are most likely to support your type of organisation or project.

It provides an overview of the information you will need for an application. The guide will help you build up a collection of the key documents most funders will want to see. This will save you time when you are applying to more than one funder.

Finally, we have provided some helpful tips from other organisations about applying for funding, as well as some tips from funders.

The mahi of making a difference for our communities is important, and applying for funding can be challenging and time consuming. We hope this resource makes that task a little easier.


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You are ready for funding and you want to find the funder that is right for you. That means identifying the funder or funders that are most likely to support your work.

Use the list of funders below as your starting point. Which funders look as though they might support your organisation or project? Check out their websites and their strategies. What are their goals? What sorts of grants do they make? What are they most interested in supporting? Most funders have strategies that include information on the sorts of work and organisations they want to fund. They may want to fund work on sustainable housing, for example, or rangatahi health. Find the funders that are interested in the sorts of issues your organisation is involved in.

You then want to understand whether a funder can offer the type of funding you need. Funders will also have different approaches to funding. Some will provide short-term grants for a one-off activity. Others will want to fund projects and organisations where they can see the potential of bringing longer-term positive change in communities.

This basic research can save you time and energy in the long run by making sure your application goes to funders who are passionate about the same things you are, and who can provide the short or long-term funding options that will work for your organisation.

You then want to know about the application process. Some funders will be open to applications at various times during the year. You want to know what date you need to submit your application, what information and supporting documents you need to provide. Once you know what the funder is looking for, you can start the application. If you get lost or need support, most funders will be happy for you to email them or call them for support.

Some funders now have a relationship-based funding process. A funder interested in restoring natural environments, for example, will look to fund organisations that are doing work on this issue. They will look to build relationships with these organisations that may result in long-term funding partnerships.

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Types of funders in Aotearoa

Funding available to community organisations in Aotearoa New Zealand generally comes from eight main types of sources.

These are community trusts, energy trusts, government and council funds, community foundations, gaming trusts, family and individual trusts and foundations, licensing trusts, and corporate foundations. Each of these sources and the individual funds within them has its own criteria, priorities, and processes for giving grants, reflecting the diverse needs and goals they support.

The image above represents these eight key sources of funding and their approximate relative size in terms of grant money distributed annually. This ranges from nearly $400 million each year across all government and council funds to about $4 million across 17 community foundations.

Descriptions of these eight funding sources and a sample of entities within that group, including how and what they fund, are detailed in the following section. This information provides a broad overview and sample of funds, not a complete list. To search all available sources of funding, use the following databases:

  • Generosity NZ: This is a paid subscription service, but it offers free access via public libraries outside Auckland. Generosity NZ provides comprehensive information on scholarships, grants, and funding opportunities for individuals and community groups. It is a valuable resource for finding funding that matches your specific needs. Generosity NZ
  • GEMS (Grants Expertise Management System): A paid subscription service provided by Strategic Grants. GEMS offers a sophisticated database and management system that helps organisations identify suitable grants, track applications, and manage reporting. It is designed to support the strategic management of grant applications. GEMS

A sample of community foundations

Name

How they fund

What they don't fund
Nikau Foundation
nikaufoundation.n

Applications for wider Wellington region open Feb/Mar.

Funding salaries, capital expenditure, operating costs and more.

Unable to support divisive religious activities, individuals, political parties and activity outside of greater Wellington region.
Northland Community Foundation

northlandcommunity...

The Northland Grassroots Fund opens April/May and provides grants up to $15,000. 
Projects must support children, young people and their whānau/families. More information.
Excluding core health and disability services, education, sports, leisure and recreation, arts, plus more.
Top of the South Community Foundation

topsouthfoundation.org.nz

Annual grant period 1 - 30 June. Funding level of $2,000-$8,000 in Nelson and Tasman and $1,000-$3,000 in Marlborough.Not listed, however applications will need to benefit people in this geographic region. 

Community foundations of Aotearoa New Zealand have more information about the foundations around the country, here.


A sample of community trusts

    NameHow they fundWhat they don't fund
    Community Trust South communitytrustsouth.nzFunding people and ideas
    that benefit our community.
    General grants up to $75,000 and major grants over $75,000. As well as specialist funds for sports, kapa haka, school and early childhood education. More information here.
    Excluding projects outside the geographic region, repeat requests for the same project, completed projects, more than one approved request within a 12 month period. Including others.
    Foundation North
    foundationnorth.org.nz
    Four funding focus areas: hāpai te ōritetanga - increased equity, whakauru mai - social Iiclusion whakahou taiao - regenerative environment and hāpori awhina - community Sspport and a particular interest in activities that have regard to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and Climate Action Offer quick response grants up to $25,000, community grants over $25,000, impact grants by invitation.Excluding some education initiatives, core health services, individuals, international costs, conferences and others.
    Toi Foundation  
    toifoundation.org.nz
    Committed to supporting our communities to build a thriving, inclusive and equitable Taranaki.

    Four key funds with specific criteria - Strengthening Communities Fund, Strategic Fund, Innovation Fund and Investing for Impact fund. Read the comprehensive information here.
    Exclusions are covered with the information provided about each type of fund.

    Further information about community trusts and how they came about, here.

    Find the community trust for your local area below:


    A sample of corporate foundations

    NameHow they fundWhat they don't fund
    ANZ Staff Foundation
    anz.co.nz
    Providing grants to community  organisations for projects which benefit as many people as possible.Do not support - salaries, wages, operational cost, travel, religious, political or hobby causes.
    Goodman Foundation
    nz.goodman.com

    They bring people and resources together to address disadvantage in our communities.

    Cash grants for projects with defined outcomes for 1 - 3 years.

    Not specified.
    Harcourts Foundation 

    harcourtsfoundation.org

    Support to NZ registered charities. 
    Funding of up to $25,000.

    Eligibility details here.

    Don't fund - schools, sports clubs, operating costs, fundraising events, equipment purchases.

    Spark Foundation
    spark.co.nz
    Their mission is to accelerate towards digital equity.

    Granting
    - 75% of funding is multi-year partnerships
    - 25% for annual grants between $500 - $20,000.

    Get in touch to discuss funding sparkfoundation@spark.co.nz.
    Not specified.
    Te Rourou
    One Aotearoa Foundation
    terourou.one.nz
    Te Rourou is committed to creating an equitable Aotearoa for our rangatahi.

    Currently no contestable funding rounds available. Some specific funding rounds open occasionally listed under 'current mahi' on their website.

    Details provided when a funding round is open.

    A sample of energy trusts

    Name

    How they fund

    What they don't fund
    Central Lakes Trust

    clt.net.nz

    Provides funding to charitable causes within the Central Lakes region. 
    Funding - project, programme and operational grants. And specific individual tertiary scholarships and art support of up to $2,500.
    Unable to support individuals, advocacy, maintenance of facilities and equipment. 

    More information here.

    Tauranga Energy Consumer Trust 
    tect.org.nz
    Support for local initiatives, facilities and events - Tauranga and Western Bay of Plenty regions.

    Funding application details here.

    Do not fund uniforms, repairs/maintenance, individuals or informal groups and overseas aid.
    WEL Energy Trust
    welenergytrust.co.nz
    Funding for Hamilton, Raglan, Huntly, Ngāruawāhia.

    - Quick response grants up to $20,000
    - Community support above $20,000
    And support beyond grantmaking.
    Further information, here.
    Do not fund projects outside their locational region.
    No travel, debit payments, individuals or commercial organisations.

    A sample of family and individual trusts and foundations

    Name

    How they fund

    What they don't fund

    Jenkins Foundation jenkinsfoundation.org.nz

    Focus areas are global warming, conservation, education, the arts, society and public amenities.
    Open applications approach based on making contact, then having a follow up and then preparing an application. More information here.
    Unable to support - general running costs, wages, salaries. Projects that are not community-led and controlled. Initiatives that are not economically and environmentally sustainable. Individuals, sports, or any closed groups.
    J R McKenzie Trust

    www.jrmckenzie.org.nz

    Prioritising children/young people/whānau, Māori, Pacific peoples and communities that experience exclusion. 
    - Innovation fund grants up to $30,000
    - impact grants over $30,000
    More information here.
    Areas which don't align with their strategy eg: travel, buildings, land purchase. Read the full list here.
    The Tindall Foundation
    tindall.org.nz
    Prioritising family/whānau, community and the environment.
    - 1/3 funding accepting applications $500-$15,000.

    - 2/3 funding for impact where Tindall seek out initiatives to work with. 

    More information here.

    Information about what is not funded, here. For example arts, sports, health services, animal charities.
    Todd Foundation

    toddfoundation.org.nz

    Their funding approach is based on proactively seeking out communities, groups, and collectives to partner with.
    Read about how to build a relationship with Todd Foundation here.
    One-off projects or service delivery without a systemic change focus. More information here.
    Wright Family Foundation
    wrightfamilyfoundation.org.nz
    Funding focus on education, music/arts and community.

    They accept applications, which are reviewed monthly. More information here.

    Not noted on their website.

    A sample of gaming trusts

    NameHow they fundWhat they don't fund
    Aotearoa Gaming Trust 
    agt.nz
    Fund a wide range of community groups and charitable causes within New Zealand.Not specified.
    One Foundation
    onefoundation.nz
    Funding arts, community, culture, education, health and welfare and sports. 
    More information here.
    Excluding horse and greyhound racing and breeding, sports players competing professionally. Plus more.
    The Lion Foundation lionfoundation.nzFunding arts and culture (30%), health (15%), sport (40%) and education (15%).
    Step by step information about how to apply here.
    Exclusions - retrospective grants, international travel, certain sporting expenses. More information here.

    A full list of the gaming trusts here.


    A sample of government and council funds

    Name

    How they fund

    What they don't fund
    Auckland Council 

    aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

    Community grants for projects and services that benefit Aucklanders. 

    Including arts, events, community, sports and recreation, environment and heritage. More information and FAQ's here.

    Not able to fund legal or medical expenses, central govt services eg: core education, building works. More information here.

    Christchurch City Council 

    ccc.govt.nz

    Assistance for community groups, sports teams, running events, those in financial distress within the Christchurch region. 
    Most of the funds open once per year for applications. Details here.

    Exclusions include medical costs, debit payments, retrospective events and more. Exclusions are listed by funding type here.

    Creative NZ 
    creativenz.govt.nz

    Funding for artists and arts organisations.
    Funding quick response grants, arts grants, investment programs and specialist funds.

    Applicants can speak to an advisor.

    Applicants who have received funding for the same project from other sources, including other government agencies, may not be eligible for additional funding from CNZ. Plus additional exclusions mentioned with each fund.
    Lottery Communities Funding
    communitymatters.govt.nz

    Various funds for different community need and priorities. All funding is contestable and application dates on their website. 

    DIA advisors can provide information and advice. Contact.

    Excludes - commercial, political and/or religious objectives, overseas aid, medical expenses or treatment, repaying debits or projects which have been completed.
    Sport New Zealand 
    sportnz.org.nz

    Sport NZ partners with the country’s network of 14 Regional Sports Trusts to manage and distribute the fund. Grants sizes, criteria and processes vary across regions.

    Exclusions include - funding for commercial, political, or religious activities, debt repayment and activities that have already taken place.


    A sample of licensing trusts

    Name

    How they fund

    What they don't fund
    Invercargill Licensing Trust 
    ilt.co.nz
    Contributing to a vibrant Invercargill.

    Funding facilities, arts, education and youth, clubs and associations, health and wellbeing and active recreation. 

    Application and contact details here.

    Must benefit the regional location. No other exclusions mentioned.
    The Trusts (Portage and Waitakere Licensing Trust)
    thetrusts.co.nz

    Surplus profits support local community groups.

    There are four avenues for funding: Your West Support Fund; Your West Innovation Fund; Sponsorships and Donations (up to $500); and Supporters Club. 

    Information on how to apply here.

    Excluding travel and accommodation costs. Funding must support those within the geographic area of West Auckland.

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    Applying for funding - a check list

    Most funders will want similar basic information about your organisation and your project. Here are some suggestions of the documents and information you want to have ready for your applications.

    1. A description of your organisation. This will include an overview of what you do, who you do it for, and the benefits for your community. Here is a helpful resource from HuiE! for putting together your organisations description - creating a powerful one-sentence statement for what you do.

    2. Project plan and budget. This provides information about your project or programme for which you are applying for funding. It usually includes timelines for the project plan, budgets for any costs and might include quotes for services. Below are two useful links for creating your project budget - templates for operating and project budget and things to consider when putting together your budget for a funding application.

      3. Letters of support and recommendation. You can support your application by including letters of support from your community and other funders or organisations you have worked with in the past, who can verify your organisation’s reputation.

      4. Outcomes and impacts - gather your stories, data and insights about the positive changes your work makes in the community. Below is a useful booklet from JR McKenzie Trust - understanding your impact.

      Other documents which may be helpful to have ready for your next application:

      • Annual accounts - Some funders will ask for annual accounts for your organisation. This is the previous financial year's accounts - showing the income and expenses. See accounting standards for more information. 
      • Bank account - A deposit slip or letter from your bank confirming the business bank account details. Often requested by funders before they can pay out any grant money.
      • Cost evidence - If the funding application is to purchase computers for the office, the evidence would be quotes from a retail store. If the funding application is for staff wages, the evidence would be signed employment agreements.
      • Signed resolution - This is a document from the board of trustees, agreeing to apply for funding. Sometimes it may just be a copy of the board meeting minutes.
      • Up to date information - Is the charities register up to date with your organisation's details? - Is your website up to date? Many funders will cross check your application against these online websites.

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        Helpful tips

        We’ve thought of a few suggestions to help make life a little easier when seeking funding. Spending time to set up a few systems and reminders can make your life simpler in the future.

        • Desk top research. Spend some time finding a funder that shares an interest in the issues that your organisation is working on.  Most funders have information on their websites about the types of work they want to support.  Many funder websites will feature stories and videos about the organisations and the projects they have funded. These stories can help you understand whether what you offer may be a good fit with what the funder is looking for. 
        • Create a focus list. Narrow down your focus to the funders you think would be the best fit for you.  Check out their application processes and the information they are looking for.  You may find they all require similar information, making it easier to prepare applications.
        • Create a funding calendar. List the funds you’d like to apply for, the application dates and any application requirements, to help you remember which application to focus on next. To get started there is great 10 minute webinar by Community Think here. Support your calendar with Diary reminders.
        • Think about the relationship.  If your organisation aims to be around and making a difference for your community for the long-term, think about your funding applications as a step towards building a long-term relationship with your funders. You want them to be there with you.
        • Build your own resource library.  Have all the essential information and documents at hand.  These may include audited accounts, proof of your registration with Charities Services, your constitution, or your legal incorporation as a trust.
        • Try again.  If your funding application is not successful, get ready to try again.  Your organisation is probably competing with lots of other organisations for funding – and funders cannot find funding for all the good work that is being done.  Ask for feedback from the funder on how you could improve your chances of getting funding next time.  If your application was not a good fit, they might also be able to suggest another funder that would be better for you.
        • Look for other options.  This resource provides a sample of some different types of funders. If you are not able to find a funder or funders from this list that you think might work for you, there may be other options.  More information on funding sources is available from Charities Services and from Generosity New Zealand. The Generosity New Zealand website is a subscriber service, but you may be able to access their information free of charge through your local library.
        • Ask for help. Finally, and most importantly, don’t be afraid to ask for help, especially when you are new to making funding applications.  You are in this for your community, and members of your community might be able to help write or gather the information you need for your application. A funding organisation that is interested in your work may also be able to provide support and guide you through the process. 
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        Glossary of useful terms

        Funder and granting terms

        ContestableA fund has an eligibility criteria and a fixed amount to allocate. Many people can apply, applications are considered alongside others. Funding is not guaranteed.
        Funding roundThe dates a fund opens and closes. You will need to submit an application before the closing date.
        Impact investmentInvestments made to organisations with long-term positive benefit to community or the environment. Link
        In-kind contributionsA non-monetary donation. Eg: volunteering
        Non-contestable/by invitation

        A funder doesn’t take applications for a non-contestable fund. It is relationship based funding, often for long term goals. Example

        Match fundingWhen more than one organisation contributes equally to a fund. Example
        Request for proposals (RFP)When an organisation invites a number of people to apply for the same project/fund. And then a selection is made from those who apply.
        Trials, pilots and prototypesTo test and refine a new project, service or way of working.
        Umbrella or fund holder organisation To provide support to an ‘unregistered’ group not able to apply directly as they may not meet one or more of the eligibility criteria. The umbrella organisation receives the funding on behalf. Link

        Strategy, impact and measurement terms

        AccountabilityResponsibility of grantee and grantor to ensure the funds are used as agreed upon. This could include monitoring and reporting back.
        Capacity buildingDeveloping the skills of an organisation, group or individual in order to build success. 
        EvaluationA process of showing value, worth. Using evidence and data to help tell the story of your organisations impact and work in the community. Link

        Evidence/data

        Facts, stories, measures that can be used in evaluation to show the impact of your organisations work in the community.
        ImpactsEvery outcome helps move your community towards impact, which means making a difference for the long-term. Link
        OutcomesAn outcome is a change that happens because of your work towards a goal, for your community. Link

        Sustainability (organisational)

        An organisation's ability to ensure they are successful for the long term. For grantees this could be ensuring your strategy and delivery plan is robust so you can stay in business and deliver your important programmes for community.

        Theory of Change and Logic Model

        Logic model is used to plan a new project or service – and focuses on what goes in, what comes out and the result from it.

        Where a theory of change includes all the different ways you might get to change even if it's not directly from your plan or service. Link

        Financial and business terms

        Balance sheetSnapshot of your organisation's assets and liabilities (also known as your statement of financial position)
        BudgetA plan of your organisation's income and spending. Often when applying for funding you need to have a budget to show how you will use/spend the grant. Link
        CapitalCapital is the money used to build, run, or grow a business. Link
        CharityA not for profit organisation which has registered with the Department of Internal Affairs Charities Register. Link
        EndowmentA financial gift/donation that is invested, with the income used as grant money. Link
        Incorporated societyAn organisation that is a non-profit membership-based group. Link
        Indirect/overhead costsThese are general business and administration expenses that aren’t directly linked to delivering programmes and services. Eg: paying rent on your office. Link
        PerpetuityLasting forever into the future. Eg: a community trust looks after its investments and granting to make sure it can stay in operation forever and continue to benefit communities. Link

        Spend-down

        When a funder gives all their money away over a specific timeframe and then closes their organisation once all money is granted. Link
        Statement of service performanceA non-financial report that goes along with your annual accounts. It tells the story of the work you delivered for the year. Link
        Profit and lossA financial report that shows how much your business has spent and earned over time. Link (also known as a statement of financial performance).
        TrustA group that legally registers as a trust and nominates guardians ‘trustees’ over their organisation and belongings eg: property. Link

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        Tell us what you think

        This is a living resource and we are open to receiving your suggestions or links to useful resources.

        Please send us an email to info@csinz.org with “Te Pūaha o te Ako funding resource” in the subject heading.


        Image captions

        1. meeting photo by truestock authentic Aotearoa stock imagery 
        2. piggy bank photo by Pawel Czerwinski on Unsplash
        3. typing photo by Damian Zaleski on Unsplash
        4. clock photo by Lukas Blazek on Unsplash
        5. speech bubble photo by Eskay Lim on Unsplash
        6. letters photo by Jason Leung on Unsplash