Community Grants

We provide grants to local and regional organisations delivering services in Upper Hutt. The grants support projects and initiatives that enhance community services, promote a sense of community, or contribute to our community wellbeing.

Information about our funding requirements and priorities

Click on each section to find out more.

General requirements for applications

Your application must show:

  • a strong, Upper Hutt wide community benefit;
  • a clear need for additional funding;
  • your ability and history of accessing other funding sources; and
  • substantial volunteer involvement and self-help.

Our priority areas for funding

Our priority areas for funding are:

  • programmes with a focus on helping those most in need in Upper Hutt;
  • existing community support initiatives requiring additional funding;
  • community-driven events and programmes which promote a sense of togetherness and/or contribute to community wellbeing;
  • organisations whose work has a wide community reach; and
  • indirect programme/running costs for community support work.

 

What our Community Grants can't cover

If you qualify for other funding, or if your project is eligible to receive direct funding from central government, we will normally not consider your application for a Community Grant.

Other expenses that are excluded from Community Grant funding:

  • purchase of capital items and capital projects,
  • wages and salaries,
  • prize money,
  • travel for individuals or groups, and
  • cost of entry/conference fees.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Click on the tiles to read more.

How can I apply for a Community Grant?

Applications for 2025 closed on Monday, 11 August 2025. 

The funding round dates for 2026 have not been set yet. We will make that information available here as soon as we can.

When the 2026 funding round opens, you will be able to complete and sign an online application form via this page. 

What information do I need to provide in my application?

You will need to provide the following information:

  • your organisation’s current financial statements;
  • evidence of bank account details* (so we can pay you if your application is successful); 
  • a copy of a utility bill (if you are applying for a grant to help you pay utilities such as power, phone, or insurance);
  • a quote which is specific to the funds you are applying for; and
  • any other information or documents that will help support your application.

To clarify requirements and for further information, contact Mel Smith from our Community Partnerships team: funding@uhcc.govt.nz

* This needs to show the name the account is in and the bank account number. Examples are: a screenshot from your internet banking, or a photocopy of the top of a bank statement.

How does Council decide if my application is approved?

The Community Grants Committee will consider how your application meets the criteria for receiving funding, and then compare with all the other applications.

The Committee for 2025 applications met on Thursday, 4 September 2025, at 9.00AM.

The date for next year's meeting will be set after the local government elections.

When will I hear if my application has been successful?

We expect to notify you about your grant application in late September or early October.

All applicants for the 2025 funding round have been notified.

Successful applicants will receive payment of grants within 20 working days after we contact them about the outcome of their application.

I received a grant in the last funding round. Where can I fill in an Accountability Report?

Complete your report here

 

Information and support

Mel Smith
Community Partnerships
funding@uhcc.govt.nz

Accountability report

Complete your report

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