Contestable Grant Frequently Asked Questions
Please see below for frequently asked questions about our district-wide contestable fund.
Have a question? Send it through to our team at grants@tararuadc.govt.nz
What is the District-Wide Contestable Fund?
The District-Wide Contestable Fund is a funding opportunity provided by the Tararua District Council to support community-led projects and initiatives that benefit the Tararua community.
Who can apply for funding?
To be eligible for funding, applicants must:
- Operate within the Tararua District;
- Demonstrate a clear benefit to the community or district; and
- Have no outstanding accountability reports for previous funding received from the Council.
What types of projects can be funded?
The Contestable Fund will fund a wide range of costs integral to project or service delivery including salaries, training and development, administration, and office expenses, rent and utilities, promotion and materials and small capital items. However, it will not fund:
- Activities promoting religious, ministry, or political purposes
- Debt repayment
- Legal and medical expenses
- Public services under central government responsibility (e.g., education, primary health care)
- Alcohol purchases
- Retrospective costs (unless required as a grant condition)
- Large physical works needing consents or permits
- Services outside the district
How much funding is available?
The total pool of funding available is $100,000.
When can I apply?
Applications for Round 1 of the 2024/25 Financial Year will open on 13 January 2025 and close on 7 February 2025.
Applications for Round 2 of the 2024/25 Financial Year will open on 1 April 2025 and close on 30 April 2025.
How do I apply?
To apply, visit www.tararuadc.govt.nz/grants and follow the instructions to submit your application online. Make sure you have all necessary documentation ready, such as a budget, project plan, and any supporting documents.
What information is required for the application?
You’ll need to provide details about:
- Your organisation or group.
- The purpose of your project.
- The benefits to the community.
- How your project aligns with funding priorities.
- A detailed budget and funding requirements.
How much funding can I apply for?
There is no set minimum or maximum for applications. However, the total pool of funding available is $100,000, so grants will be awarded based on the scope of the project and its alignment with Council priorities.
How are funding decisions made?
Applications will be assessed based on the following criteria:
- Community Benefit (40%): The request benefits a large portion of the community and aligns with community needs.
- Feasibility of Request (30%): The request is clear and achievable, the applicant has capacity to deliver, and the request outcomes are sustainable.
- Financial Viability (20%): The budget is accurate and complete, the request demonstrates financial need, and it is cost-effective.
- Innovation and Creativity (10%): The request is original and creative, offering new solutions.
Can I get help with my application?
You can reach out to us for assistance at grants@tararuadc.govt.nz. We’re here to help you through the process.
Where can I find more information?
Visit www.tararuadc.govt.nz/grants for information about available council grants and sponsorship.
Please email grants@tararuadc.govt.nz if you have a specific question you need help with.
When will I know if my application is successful?
Applicants will be notified of the outcome within a few weeks of the application period closing.
Can I reapply if my application is unsuccessful?
Yes, you will be able re-apply for the following round and you can request feedback on your application to help you strengthen it for re-application.
Why is Council making changes to its community grant funding model?
Council is streamlining operational costs and reallocating funds to better support community needs to ensure resources are directed to where they can have the greatest impact, particularly in vital areas like water services.
What is the impact on discretionary funding for community boards and committees?
Discretionary funding for these groups will be halved as part of the overall reduction in community grants.
How does this impact groups with historic funding agreements?
Groups with existing agreements will now need to apply for funding through the new contestable process. These agreements are no longer automatically renewed.