Creative Communities Scheme

Local projects that increase arts participation, celebrate cultural diversity or create arts opportunities for young people.

Closes

The 2026 round, for projects from 1 October 2026 to 1 October 2027, has closed, and decisions were made on 23 September 2026. The council’s page does not give a next round, so ask the council before planning around one.

Who can apply

Eligible artists, groups and community projects delivering activity in the district. Individuals must be New Zealand citizens or permanent residents. Groups must be New Zealand based. Previous recipients must have completed their project report unless that project is still in progress. The project must take place in the district you apply to.

Amount

Applications must be under $2,500 per project

Funding route

Grant

Applicants

Individuals & whānau

Before you apply

CCS funds new artworks as part of marae projects such as tukutuku, whakairo, whāriki and kōwhaiwhai. It does not fund marae facility development or restoration — that goes to Lottery Funding for Community Facilities, which replaced Oranga Marae on 1 July 2026. Does not fund: buying equipment such as instruments, cameras, costumes or lights; ongoing administration or personnel costs; projects already started or finished; travel to attend performances elsewhere; or projects mainly focused on health, education or environment with only a small arts component.

Official source →

Checked 14 October 2026

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Details change without notice. Check the funder's own page before you apply. Tōku Waka does not administer, assess or award this funding.