A Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) fund designed for community groups and not-for-profit organisations which promote community wellbeing has opened.

QLDC community partnerships manager Marie Day encouraged eligible groups to apply for the Community Fund 2024-2027, noting applicants will be able to request up to three years of operational or project funding.

“We welcome applications from new or established groups and not-for-profit organisations in the district,” she said.

“Successful past recipients have included those that reflect the diversity of our community. 

“These include those working in social services, environmental protection, arts, culture and heritage through recreational projects such as building tracks and trails.”

Marie said QLDC had a new online platform this year.

“This will help simplify the application process with those seeking funding able to use this site to apply, see the status of their application, submit any required additional reporting and more.”

The platform will also host the QLDC Events Fund, QLDC Community Fund (which are both now open) and the upcoming QLDC Waste Minimisation Community Fund (which opens next week).

“I’d encourage anyone keen to find out more about these funding opportunities and how to use the new application platform to head to the community funding page on our website,” Marie said.

The Community Fund application process has now been separated from the recently deferred Long Term Plan (LTP).

“The LTP will be open for submissions later in the year but applications for funding are being considered now,” Marie said. “This is to ensure that community funding can be allocated in the usual timeframe, with approved grants paid out from 1 July onwards.”

Applications for the QLDC Community Fund 2024-2027 close on Tuesday 7 May. They will be reviewed in May and successful applicants notified in July.

Full details including funding criteria, key dates and how to apply is available here.

PHOTO: Wānaka App