29/07/2026
Media Release -
Community Grants and Funding Round 1 opens 1 August. Support available for local ideas - 30 July 2026
Community groups, creatives and local organisations across Horowhenua are encouraged to start thinking about their next project, with applications for Community Grants and Funding Round 1 opening on 1 August 2026.
Community Grants support a wide range of community led initiatives, including events, creative projects, youth led ideas, environmental initiatives and projects that strengthen community connection and wellbeing. We also fund small assets, along with administrative and operational costs to help community groups focus on delivering their core services.
Mayor Bernie Wanden says the programme is about backing the people who are already doing the work in their communities.
“Horowhenua is full of people who see something that could be better and just get on with making it happen. These grants exist so a lack of funding does not have to be the reason a good idea does not go anywhere.
“Every year I get to see what these grants make possible, from new equipment for local clubs to events that bring the whole community together, and that is something worth backing. Round 1 is the first chance this year to put a project forward, and I would encourage anyone with an idea, big or small, to apply.”
Previous funding rounds have supported projects right across the district, from community events and cultural festivals to creative performances, exhibitions and improvements to local facilities.
To help make the application process as straightforward as possible, Council is hosting a series of drop-in support sessions where people can ask questions, talk through their ideas and get one on one help with their applications.
Julia Atkins, Community Development Team Lead, says the sessions are there to make sure the process itself is never the reason someone does not apply.
“You don’t need a finished application to come along. Bring your idea and we will help you work out which fund to apply for and answer any questions you might have.
“We hear from people every round who assumed their project was too small, or too different from what has been funded before. That is rarely the case. If you are not sure that your project meets the criteria, come along to a session or get in touch, and we can talk it through together.”
Community Grants Drop-in Sessions:
Taitoko (Levin) - Te Takeretanga o Kura-hau-pō
Tuesday 4 August, 10am to 11.30am
Tuesday 25 August, 3pm to 4pm
Te Awahau (Foxton) - Nieuwe Stroom Library
Wednesday 5 August, 11am to 12.30pm
Shannon Library
Wednesday 12 August, 1pm to 2pm
Applications open on 1 August 2026 and most funds close on 31 August 2026.
A range of grants are available in this funding round, each supporting different aspects of community wellbeing.
Grants open now and closing 31 August 2026:
• Community Events and Programmes Grant
• Operations and Small Assets Grant
• Rural Halls Grant
• Waste Minimisation Grant
Grants open now and closing 10 September 2026:
• Creative Communities Scheme
• Shannon Community Development Grant
Also open:
• Horowhenua Major Events Fund, open year-round and closes once the fund is fully allocated
• Youth Empowerment Fund, open throughout the school year from 1 February to 31 October 2026
More information, including eligibility criteria and how to apply, is available at horowhenua.govt.nz/grants.
For help or advice, contact [email protected] or call 06 366 0999.
