Community project grants now open

Have you got a community project that needs a bit of extra support to get going?

Two of Council’s community grants schemes, Mahi Nui and Mahi Iti are now open for community groups to apply.

“We are taking applications for the Mahi Iti grant now, until Friday 24 September,” says contracts and funding advisor Julie Conder.

“Community groups or voluntary organisations can apply for matching funds of $250 - $2500 for one-off community-led development projects.”

The Council funding is granted based on matching the equivalent value of volunteer time, gifts in kind, donated services or other grants that the project receives.

“Projects considered should help towards building a stronger, healthier community and funds used towards things like travel, promotion or personnel.”

Ellen Jarratt of Jarratt Create & Educate, received funding from this grant in 2014.

“The GDC Community Led Matching Fund enabled us to launch a 'Wake Up Creativity' Initiative to provide free high quality art workshops to families in our region.

“The project’s aim was to stimulate and encourage participation in the arts and it certainly did that!” says Ellen.

The artworks are permanently displayed in Tairāwhiti Museum to encourage others to take up the challenge.

“Applications for more than $1000 will be invited to make a presentation to the Community Development Committee, who will award grants in mid-October.”

“Anyone that has a more long term project can apply for the multi-year fund, Mahi Nui, which allows up to $10,000 for projects up to 3 years,” says Ms Conder.

Projects don’t have to provide matching commitment from other sources but an emphasis on significant community engagement and volunteer involvement in projects that contribute to community resilience, development and well-being, caring for our natural resources or enhancing our region.

Mahi Nui applications are open for a longer period, closing on Wednesday 28 October.

All applicants are invited to make a presentation to the committee, with decisions made in early December.

The Mahi Iti grant is available twice a year in February and August. Mahi Nui is a three yearly scheme and will not open again until August 2018.

Application forms are available from customer Services in Fitzherbert Street and Te Puia Springs, or apply online atwww.gdc.govt.nz/community-funding-schemes/ .

For more information or help with writing your application contact Julie.Conder@gdc.govt.nz .

ENDS

© Scoop Media