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Community Funding
Pūraka moni mō te Hapori
We provide or administer a range of funding opportunities to help support local initiatives and events to promote community wellbeing and sustainability. We can also point you in the right direction of other external funders, either locally or nationally.
Funding opportunities
Community Funding Webinar
Keen to apply for funding but not sure where to start?
View a recording of our Community Funding Webinar held on 9 April 2026.
Hear more about the Community Fund, Event Fund, Heritage Incentive Grant and Waste Minimisation Community Fund, and how to use the QLDC Community Funding application platform.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Generally, not-for-profit community groups, charities, and incorporated societies that contribute to community wellbeing, sustainability, heritage, or cultural initiatives can apply. Each fund has specific eligibility criteria, so be sure to check the fund’s guidelines or contact us for more details and guidance:
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QLDC funding is generally not available for initiatives that do not primarily benefit the community, commercial or for-profit activities, retrospective costs (expenses already incurred), debt repayment, legal fees, or initiatives that fall outside the scope of the fund’s purpose. Always check the specific fund guidelines for exclusions before applying.
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Funding is typically available for initiatives that benefit the community, such as events, environmental initiatives, social services, arts and culture, and recreation. Some funds also support operational costs, equipment, and capacity-building efforts. Make sure to review the specific fund criteria to confirm eligibility.
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Applications are submitted online through the QLDC Community Funding platform, powered by SmartyGrants. Before applying, gather key documents such as financial statements, initiative plans, and letters of support. If you need help, check out the SmartyGrants applicant help or contact:
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Funding round dates vary depending on the fund. Some are open year-round, while others have specific application periods.
View the current and upcoming community funding opportunities on the Smarty Grants platform.
You can also check the relevant fund page for key dates or sign up for funding updates to stay informed.
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Once submitted, applications go through an assessment process, which may involve review panels or funding committees. You may be contacted for further information. Funding decisions are usually communicated within a set timeframe, which will be outlined in the fund’s guidelines.
Training opportunities
Need help with funding, governance, planning or growing your organisation?
As part of its commitment to supporting a strong and thriving community sector, QLDC proudly partners with and funds Three Lakes Cultural Trust and huddl, who have worked together to deliver The Learning Space - a free online learning platform for community groups, creatives and for-purpose organisations across Queenstown Lakes and Central Otago.
The Learning Space is a FREE e-learning platform designed to support community groups, creatives, and for-purpose organisations across Queenstown Lakes and Central Otago.
Available 24/7, The Learning Space offers practical tools, resources and bite-sized learning modules that can be accessed whenever it suits you. Whether you're a volunteer, board member, leader or team member, it's an easy way to build skills and confidence throughout your funding journey and beyond.
Find out more:
The Funding Series
Looking to build your organisation’s funding knowledge and confidence?
The Funding Series is a free programme of monthly workshops designed to strengthen the capability of non-profit organisations and equip them with practical tools for long-term financial sustainability.
Running from March to June, the series is funded by Queenstown Lakes District Council and delivered in partnership with huddl, Three Lakes Cultural Trust, Sport Central, and the Conservation Alliance.
The workshops are open to individuals, community groups, boards, trustees, and organisations that rely on grants, funding, or fundraising to support their projects, events, and day-to-day operations.
Plans are underway for the Funding Series to return in 2027. Stay tuned for future workshop announcements.
The Funding Series Full Schedule for 2026:
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Back by popular demand and sponsored by Central Lakes Trust, fundraising strategist Fi McPhee returns to lead this essential session. The perfect entry point for those new to funding, boards, and volunteers, or as a refresher for those looking to hone their funding skills.
Wānaka: Wednesday 4 March, 6.00pm to 8.00pm, Wānaka Community Hub Sidey Auditorium
Arrowtown: Tuesday 10 March, 6.00pm to 8.00pm, Arrowtown Community Centre -
Working alongside regional funders to explore what makes a great application and identify common pitfalls.
Arrowtown: Tuesday 21 April, 10.00am to 12.00pm, Arrowtown Community Centre
Wānaka: Thursday 23 April, 10.00am to 12.00pm, Lake Wānaka Centre -
An expert-led session with Dr. Linda Taylor on effectively measuring and communicating the impact of community work—a vital component for modern grant-seeking.
Wānaka: Tuesday 19 May, 6.00pm to 8.00pm, Lake Wānaka Centre, Armstrong Room
Queenstown: Wednesday 20 May, 6.00pm to 8.00pm, Salvation Army Frankton Auditorium -
This session explores innovative revenue streams beyond traditional grants, providing groups with strategies to diversify their income for greater resilience. The workshop will align with the Te Muka Toi, Te Muka Tākata Creative and Culture Hui.
Queenstown: Friday 12 June, Time to be confirmed, Te Atamira
Wānaka: Saturday 13 June, Time to be confirmed, Lake Wānaka Centre
Tips for fundraising
At some point, nearly every community organisation will need to raise money to continue its work in the community, run an event, or carry out a special project. Raising funds, like most activities, is easier if you have a clear idea of what you need to do and how you'll do it.
Funding opportunities open and close at different times throughout the year so it pays to be organised, research well in advance and check funder information regularly.
If you'd like to discuss options for funding your project or event, please contact:
Here's a few steps to follow to get you started:
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Gather information about your organisation
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Gather information about your intiative or activity
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Gather key documents (financials, project plans, letters of support, etc)
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Identify suitable funding sources
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Clearly define your initiative’s goals, outcomes, and how they align with the fund’s purpose
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Submit applications and carry out fundraising activities
- Track funding received and evaluate results.
Funding tools and resources
GenerosityNZ: a digital search facility for funding information in Aotearoa. They have two search tools that connect people to funding opportunities. givME offers access to scholarships and grants for individuals. givUS lists resource schemes for communities, volunteer organisations and clubs. Access to GenerosityNZ is available via our libraries (with a library card). Click here to get started.
huddl: provides practical tools, training, and connections to help community groups secure funding from a wide range of funders. Explore funding resources at huddl.nz.
CommunityNet Aotearoa: an online hub where you can find and share resources designed to strengthen community organisations. Resources include a Funding Application Checklist.
Get in contact
If you have any questions, please get in touch with the Community Funding team by emailing: