Community Investment Contracts

1. Community Vibrancy – Delivering and supporting events and activities that bring people together and create thriving communities.
2. Capability and Capacity Development – Building the skills, governance, and sustainability of community organisations.

Eligible applicants include:

• Community groups, trusts, and incorporated societies
• Charitable organisations
• Schools (for projects that benefit the wider community).

Applicants must be based in or delivering projects in the South Waikato District. All organisations must address the selection criteria and provide supporting evidence to their business registration and type.

Projects must align with at least one funding stream and deliver positive outcomes for our community. Examples include:

• Community festivals, cultural events, and art exhibitions
• Organisational training, governance development, and volunteer recruitment.

The grants can't be used for:

• Ongoing operational costs (e.g., salaries unrelated to the project)
• Debt repayment
• Fundraising for other causes
• Projects that primarily benefit individuals rather than the community
• Political or religious promotion.

1. Check the request for procurement (RFP) to confirm your project’s eligibility.
2. Complete the online application form before the round closes.
3. Email the application to communitycontracts@southwaikato.govt.nz or deliver it to your local Council building.

Applications are reviewed by a tender evaluation team (TET) using criteria such as:

• Alignment with Council strategies and funding stream outcomes
• Demonstrated community need and benefit
• Project feasibility and sound budgeting
• Collaboration and partnerships.

You will be notified by email or letter after the assessment process, usually within 4–6 weeks of the funding round closing.

You will sign a funding agreement outlining:

• Project delivery timelines
• How the funds can be used
• Reporting and accountability requirements.

Yes. All funded projects must complete an acquittal report showing:

• How the funding was spent
• What was achieved
• Any lessons learned.

This helps us ensure accountability and improve future funding.