Monday, 03 August 2026
QLDC Economic Diversification Fund opens for applications
Applications for the 2026–2027 funding round are open from 31 July to 30 September 2026.
Businesses, organisations, and innovators with bold ideas to help shape the future of the Queenstown Lakes economy are encouraged to apply for funding through QLDC’s Economic Diversification Fund.
Applications for the 2026–2027 funding round are open from 31 July to 30 September 2026. The fund supports collaborative projects that foster innovation, unlock new opportunities, and build a more resilient and diverse local economy.
The fund supports initiatives with the potential to create lasting impact, including pilot initiatives, feasibility studies, business and sector collaborations, research, scoping work, and project delivery.
Organisations from across New Zealand are eligible to apply, provided their project involves collaboration with at least one Queenstown Lakes-based organisation, businesses, or community group.
QLDC Economic Development Manager Peter Harris said building a more diverse economy is critical to the long-term resilience of Queenstown Lakes.
“This fund is about creating new opportunities, supporting innovation, and strengthening the connections that help great ideas grow. We know there are exceptional businesses, organisations and individuals already doing this work, and the fund is designed to help them collaborate, scale their impact, and create lasting benefits for our communities.”
One of the successful recipients from the 2025–2026 funding round was Community Tech Lab, a collaboration between Startup Queenstown Lakes, Queenstown Creative Collective (QCC), FLINT, Queenstown Resort College (QRC) and huddl.
FLINT Chair Giovanni Stephens said the funding has really enabled momentum.
“It has helped local organisations come together around a shared vision, building technology capability here in the district rather than importing it.
“We are now preparing to launch, with the build phase and a showcase event to follow later this year."
Another successful recipient was Path to the Creative World | Te Ara ki te Ao Auah, a project led by Three Lakes Cultural Trust that highlights the diverse creative pathways available across the district.
Gizelle Regan, Programme Curator Te Muka Toi Te Muka Takata – Hui and Trustee of Three Cultural Lakes Trust, said the Economic Diversification Fund had been instrumental in bringing the project to life.
“The funding enabled us to produce Te Ara ki te Ao Auaha, a short film profiling the people who are building creative careers and lives in Queenstown Lakes. By showcasing their journeys, we hope to inspire young people and highlight the breadth of opportunities within our local creative economy.”
Prospective applicants are strongly encouraged to submit an Expression of Interest by 31 August 2026. This provides an opportunity to discuss project ideas with the Economic Futures team and receive guidance to help ensure applications align with the fund’s objectives and eligibility.
Applications close on Wednesday 30 September 2026.
ENDS | KUA MUTU.
Media contact: 03 441 1802
FURTHER INFORMATION | Kā pāroko tāpiri
Find out more about the fund Economic Diversification Fund
Join our Webinar on 6 August, 12.30pm-1.00pm
Book a one-on-one session with Peter Harris in Wānaka on 13 August