Funding Application

Feasibility Fund Application Guidelines

This guide outlines the feasibility funding application process, eligibility requirements, the criteria applications will be assessed against and requirements for successful applicants.

The Feasibility Fund aims to support comprehensive analysis and research to assess the practicality, viability, and potential success of projects or ideas, with a focus on benefiting our communities and economy.

The maximum amount of funding that can be applied for is $25,000.

Objective of the fund

The purpose of the Feasibility Fund is to materialise projects and ideas, along with investment in them, that will benefit our community and economy. By enabling feasibility studies, business case development and preparatory information for raising capital, the Fund will allow emerging opportunities and industries to be explored for our region, attract investment, and support sustainable regional economic growth and resiliency.

Eligibility  

To be eligible to apply for funding from the Feasibility Fund, the applicant must meet the following criteria when the application is made.

Eligible projects will:

• contain uncertainty surrounding its viability and/or validity
• produce outcomes that are action-oriented or unlock investment
• be strategically aligned to the Trust’s priorities and He Rangitapu He Tohu Ora (the waharoa and the region’s wellbeing framework)
• demonstrate clear and significant benefits for our communities and economy
• have direct relevance to the Tairāwhiti region or its communities and economy.

Additionally, applicants must:   

• be able to clearly communicate their planned feasibility study, the broader project or idea and a vision, pathway to success or desired outcome/s
• obtain a supplier quote or proposal (or produce one if undertaking the work yourself) for submission with your application
• contribute financially to the project
• be a legal entity such as a trust, company, or incorporated society, and must be able to provide evidence of this status if requested
• disclose any debt owed by the applicant
• declare any additional funding, grant, koha/donation received for the same project.

Ineligibility

We do not provide Feasibility Fund support for:

• business as usual activity, or the normal, routine operations of a business.

Applying for funding

Before you apply for funding, please make sure you:

• have read this guide carefully to ensure you understand the fund objective, eligibility, criteria, and reporting requirements
• prepare information required in the application including:
  • A description of your broader project or idea
  • An outline of the feasibility study to be undertaken
  • NZBN or Charities number, and GST number if applicable
  • Relevant quotes or proposals (refer to Supporting information)
  • Pre-coded bank deposit slip, recent bank statement or verified bank document. The applicant’s name needs to be the same as the bank account name.

Supporting information 

Supplier quote/s and/or proposal/s (mandatory)

A supplier quote or proposal is required to be submitted with your application. If you plan to conduct the feasibility study yourself, you are required to produce a quote or proposal. This should include:  

• details of the work to be undertaken with costs apportioned to any stages, milestones or aspects
• assumptions (if any)
• list of outputs (any reports or presentations that will result)
• summary of costs
• timeframes.

Project or Business Plan (optional)

To support your application, you may submit a project plan or business plan.

Assessment criteria

Applications will be assessed as follows:  

• The degree to which they meet the eligibility criteria
• The extent to which they align with the region’s wellbeing framework, He Rangitapu He Tohu Ora
• The degree to which they align with the Trust’s strategic priorities.

Applications for funding will be assessed initially by a funding advisor appointed by the Trust.

Successful applicants

Once funding has been approved, all successful applicants will receive a funding agreement.

This is a formal contract which outlines:

• the amount of funding granted
• any in kind support that the Trust will provide
• project milestones and payment schedule
• expectations and conditions of funding
• reporting requirements, including how outcomes and impact will be measured
• a sunset clause, which outlines the timeframe in which funding must be drawn down. If funding is not uplifted within this period, it may be forfeited.

Funding may be released in stages aligned with agreed milestones.

Reporting requirements

All successful applicants will be required to formally report to the Trust on the use of monies granted.

A Project Report must be submitted no later than eight (8) weeks after completion of the feasibility study.

This report must include:

• copies of any outputs produced (such as reports or studies)
• how the funding was used, including supporting evidence (such as invoices)
• the outcomes achieved and any next steps identified.

Additional reporting requirements may apply depending on the nature of the project and will be outlined in the funding agreement.

The Trust’s discretion

The Trust reserves the right to:

• require applicants to provide additional information  
• impose conditions on the approval or payment of funding
• take any other action that it sees fit in relation to the funding process.

Part of the terms and conditions of funding

• The applicant must detail in their application any actual or potential conflict of interest (including anything which might have the appearance of a conflict of interest) which could compromise the decision on the application or bring the process or the Trust into disrepute.
• All applicants must disclose to the Trust any other funding sources related to the project (either confirmed or in process), as well as any corporate or commercial sponsorship arrangements.
• Applicants must not directly or indirectly seek to influence funding decisions in any improper or unethical manner (or in any way which might have the appearance of being so), nor attempt to solicit or garner non-public information which might give an unfair advantage in the application process.
• Each applicant warrants that all information provided in relation to its application is true and correct in all material particulars, always, and is not misleading whether by omission or otherwise. Applicants must disclose all matters likely to be material to the Trust’s consideration of its application or which might have a bearing on the outcomes the Trust expects to be delivered from the funding.
• If circumstances or information change after making an application, or after the awarding of funding, the applicant must immediately notify the Trust.
• Each applicant consents to the Trust carrying out a due diligence review on its application, including the organisations and personnel involved, and relevant track records. The applicant consents to the Trust making enquiries from third parties in this regard and shall provide access to referees upon request.
• All applicants must disclose any affiliation, personal or professional relation with council staff, elected officials, local board members or the Trust’s trustees or employees, or if their immediate family, has any interest or involvement in the event in any way.
• The information the Trust collects from an applicant (such as the names and contact details of officers) is being collected so that the Trust can assess the application for funding. All personal information provided to the Trust in connection with an application will be held, and may be used or disclosed only in accordance with the Trust Tairāwhiti Privacy Policy and the Privacy Act 2020.

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Direct Investment Proposal Guidelines

This guide outlines the process for expressions of interest for direct investment proposals.

The Trust considers direct investment opportunities that align with its strategic priorities and will lead to transformational outcomes for Tairāwhiti. 

As the regional economic development agency, the Trust is committed to building our economy and job opportunities and can enable this through strategic direct investments.

Proposals should: 

• be strategically aligned to the Trust’s strategic priorities
• align with our wellbeing framework
• demonstrate clear and significant benefits for our communities and economy
• have direct relevance to the Tairāwhiti region.

Please note: any direct investment proposals received are treated as Expressions of Interest, not formal funding applications. 

The information the Trust collects from an applicant (such as the names and contact details of officers) is being collected so that the Trust can assess the Expressions of Interest. All personal information provided to the Trust in connection with an Expressions of Interest will be held, and may be used or disclosed only in accordance with the Trust Tairāwhiti Privacy Policy and the Privacy Act 2020.

Please get in touch with our economic development team for more information.

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Regional Events Fund Application Guidelines

This guide outlines the Regional Events Fund application process, eligibility requirements, assessment criteria, and expectations for successful applicants.

The Regional Events Fund supports events that attract visitors to Tairāwhiti and contribute to economic growth, regional identity, and community vibrancy.

We are looking to support high-quality events that showcase the unique culture, people, and experiences of our region, while increasing visitor numbers and spend.

Events play an important role in strengthening Tairāwhiti as a destination, creating shared experiences, and supporting local businesses and communities.

Objective of the fund

The purpose of the Regional Events Fund is to increase out-of-region visitation and economic activity by funding a balanced portfolio of events that reflect the destination’s strengths, values, and identity.

The fund aims to support events that:

• attract visitors from outside the region
• deliver measurable economic and community benefits
• contribute to a vibrant and sustainable events sector in Tairāwhiti.

Eligibility

To be eligible to apply for funding from the Regional Events Fund, the event organiser (“applicant”) must meet the following criteria at the time of application.

Eligible applicants will:

• be a legal entity such as a trust, company, or incorporated society, and be able to provide evidence if requested
• deliver an event that takes place in Tairāwhiti (the Gisborne District Council territorial authority)
• demonstrate the ability to attract visitors from outside the region
• show how the event will stimulate economic activity and achieve one or more regional outcomes:
  • bring people together to share memorable experiences
  • celebrate the Tairāwhiti region and its people
  • commemorate and respect important occasions
  • profile Tairāwhiti and its diversity.
• comply with all regulatory and council requirements, including permits and consents
• ensure the event has not already taken place at the time of funding allocation
• disclose any debt owed by the organisation responsible for the event
• declare any additional funding, grant, koha or donation for the event
• hold the event within the planned timeframe
• clearly communicate the event, its target audience, and the outcomes it is expected to achieve.

Please note: all events must have public liability insurance. The level of cover required will be assessed based on the nature of the event. 

Ineligibility

We do not provide Regional Events Fund support for:

• private or invitation-only events, lunches or dinners
• events that do not attract out-of-region visitors
• political or religious events
• events that abuse, exclude, or offend parts of the community
• events that have already been held
• events that present a hazard or significant risk to public safety
• events that have not met previous funding obligations (unless resolved to the Trust’s satisfaction).

Funding cannot be used for:

• staff salaries or wages
• purchasing or leasing a motor vehicle
• purchase of assets, including software and intellectual property
• purchase of real estate, rent, or accommodation costs
• service and maintenance costs, including utilities such as power and phone
• retrospective costs
• domestic or overseas travel
• debt repayments
• medical expenses
• prize money or entrance fees
• legal expenses
• purchase of alcohol
• infrastructure costs
• any expenditure that cannot be directly linked to increased visitation and spend. 

Applying for funding

Before you apply, please make sure you:

• have read this guide carefully to ensure you understand the fund objective, eligibility, criteria, and reporting requirements
• prepare information required in the application including:
  • supporting information, including references and previous post-event reports where applicable (refer to Supporting information)
  • NZBN or Charities number, and GST number if applicable
  • Pre-coded bank deposit slip, recent bank statement or verified bank document. The applicant’s name needs to be the same as the bank account name.

For a full list of application questions refer to Application questions.

Supporting information

Event Business Plan
Essential for new or developing events.
An event business plan should outline the key steps required to deliver a successful event and guide the event toward its objectives and vision.

The plan should set out and justify the event in a logical framework. It should act as a blueprint for delivery and may also support conversations with potential investors and funders.

Marketing and Communications overview
Essential for all events.
This should outline your communications and marketing objectives, including planned promotional, media, and marketing activity, as well as internal and external stakeholder communications.

Event Budget
Essential for all events.
A detailed budget outlining all event income and expenditure is required as part of the application. Budget information should be based on supplier quotes where possible.

Applicants should also include relevant regulatory costs, such as resource consent fees, traffic management planning costs, building consents, and other required compliance costs.

Please note that some event-related costs are not eligible for funding. Refer to Ineligibility. 

Assessment criteria

Applications will be assessed as follows:

• the degree to which they meet the eligibility criteria
• the extent to which they align with the region’s wellbeing framework, He Rangitapu He Tohu Ora
• the degree to which they align with the Trust’s strategic priorities.
• Visitor attraction
  The ability of the event to attract visitors from outside Tairāwhiti.
• Economic impact
  The extent to which the event will generate visitor spend and support local businesses.
• Event quality and delivery
  The strength of the event concept, planning, and capability to deliver a successful event.

Applications for funding will be assessed initially by a funding advisor appointed by the Trust.

Successful applicants

Once funding has been approved, all successful applicants will receive a funding agreement.

This is a formal contract which outlines:

• the amount of funding granted
• any in kind support that the Trust will provide
• project milestones and payment schedule
• expectations and conditions of funding
• reporting requirements, including how outcomes and impact will be measured
• a sunset clause, which outlines the timeframe in which funding must be drawn down. If funding is not uplifted within this period, it may be forfeited.

Funding may be released in stages aligned with agreed milestones.

Reporting requirements

All successful applicants will be required to formally report to the Trust on the use of monies granted.

An Post-Event Report must be submitted no later than eight (8) weeks after the event.

This report must include:

• final financial statements
• attendance and event outcomes
• evidence of visitor impact
• confirmation of how funding was used
• a copy of the final profit and loss statement.

The Trust’s discretion

The Trust reserves the right to:

• require applicants to provide additional information
• impose conditions on the approval or payment of funding
• take any other action that it sees fit in relation to the funding process

Part of the terms and conditions of funding

• The Regional Events Fund is capped and the Trust is not obliged to continue to allocate amounts to the Fund.
• The Trust is not obliged to grant all its funds in any year, nor to carry over unallocated amounts into future years.
• The Trust has the right to share application details with local government, Gisborne District Council, and to consult with them on applications.
• The applicant must detail in their application any actual or potential conflict of interest (including anything which might have the appearance of a conflict of interest) which could compromise the decision on the application or bring the process or the Trust into disrepute.
• All applicants must disclose to the Trust any other central government or local government funding sources for the event (either confirmed or in process), as well as any corporate or commercial sponsorship arrangements.
• Applicants must not directly or indirectly seek to influence funding decisions in any improper or unethical manner (or in any way which might have the appearance of being so), nor attempt to solicit or garner non-public information which might give an unfair advantage in the application process.
• Each applicant warrants that all information provided in relation to its application is true and correct in all material particulars, always, and is not misleading whether by omission or otherwise. Each applicant must disclose all matters likely to be material to the Trust’s consideration of its application or which might have a bearing on the outcomes the Trust expects to be delivered from the funding.
• If circumstances or information change after making an application, or after the awarding of funding, the applicant must immediately notify the Trust.
• Each applicant consents to the Trust carrying out a due diligence review on its application, including the organisations and personnel involved, and relevant track records. The applicant consents to the Trust making enquiries from third parties in this regard and shall provide access to referees upon request.
• All applicants must disclose any affiliation, personal or professional relation with council staff, elected officials, local board members or the Trust’s trustees or employees, or if their immediate family, has any interest or involvement in the event in any way.
• The information the Trust collects from an applicant (such as the names and contact details of officers) is being collected so that the Trust can assess the application for funding.  All personal information provided to the Trust in connection with an application will be held, and may be used or disclosed only in accordance with the Trust Tairāwhiti Privacy Policy and the Privacy Act 2020.

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Community Fund Application Guidelines

This guide outlines the community funding application process, eligibility requirements, the criteria applications will be assessed against and requirements for successful applicants.

The Community Fund supports diverse projects and initiatives that provide meaningful, equitable impacts across our communities, that lead to sustained wellbeing for our people. 

Objective of the fund 

The purpose of the Community Fund is to improve the wellbeing of beneficiaries in the Tairāwhiti region through strategic and equitable distributions for community projects and initiatives.  

Eligibility 

To be eligible to apply for funding from the Community Fund, the applicant must meet the following criteria when the application is made. 

Eligible applicants will: 

• be a legal entity such as a trust, company, or incorporated society, and must be able to provide evidence of this status if requested OR
• be able to demonstrate it operates with the same standards as one
• have a bank account in the applicant’s name with a minimum of two signatures
• be strategically aligned to the Trust’s priorities and He Rangitapu He Tohu Ora (the waharoa and the region’s wellbeing framework)
• benefit the people of Tairāwhiti (within the Gisborne District Council territorial authority)
• when procurement is required, work with local businesses and suppliers wherever possible
• demonstrate minimal to no negative impact on the taiao (physical environment)
• have significant community support and involvement
• demonstrate co-funding has been received or is being sought
• demonstrate community, whanau, hapu, or iwi voice is captured, or the initiative is community, whānau, hapu or iwi-led
• clearly communicate the project or initiative and the desired outcomes it will achieve.

Projects may be delivered over multiple years, where applicants can demonstrate clear outcomes, achievable milestones, and the capability to deliver over time.

Ineligibility 

We do not provide Community Fund support for:

• core activities usually funded by local or central government, unless the applicant satisfies the Trust there are extenuating circumstances 
• retrospective applications – we can’t fund something that has already taken place
• repaying or servicing debt
• refinancing loans, deposits, or underwriting projects
• duplication of similar projects already providing a service unless the applicant satisfies the Trust there are extenuating circumstances.

Applying for funding 

Before you apply, please make sure you: 

• have read this guide carefully to ensure you understand the fund objective, eligibility, criteria, and reporting requirements
• prepare information required in the application including:
  • Project detail and budget, including other funds raised
  • NZBN or Charities number, and GST number if applicable
  • Relevant quotes
  • Annual accounts for the previous 12 months and an income and expenditure statement if annual accounts are more than 12 months old
  • Pre-coded bank deposit slip, recent bank statement or verified bank document. The applicant’s name needs to be the same as the bank account name.

Application requests for more than $15,000 may require more information. 

Assessment criteria 

Applicants will be assessed as follows: 

• The degree to which they meet the eligibility criteria
• The extent to which they align with the region’s  wellbeing framework, He Rangitapu He Tohu Ora
• The degree to which they align with the Trust’s strategic priorities.

Applications for funding will be assessed initially by a funding advisor appointed by the Trust. 

Successful applicants 

Once funding has been approved, all successful applicants will receive a funding agreement.

This is a formal contract which outlines:

• the amount of funding granted
• any in kind support that the Trust will provide
• project milestones and payment schedule
• expectations and conditions of funding
• reporting requirements, including how outcomes and impact will be measured
• a sunset clause, which outlines the timeframe in which funding must be drawn down. If funding is not uplifted within this period, it may be forfeited.

Funding may be released in stages aligned with agreed milestones.

For multi-year projects, funding may be structured across multiple years and is subject to performance against agreed milestones, reporting, and ongoing delivery.

Reporting requirements 

All successful applicants will be required to formally report to the Trust on the use of monies granted.

Recipients may be required to meet with the Trust prior to project completion to agree on how the impact of the project will be measured. Any specific impact measures will be outlined in the funding agreement.

A Project Report must be submitted no later than eight (8) weeks after project completion.

This report must include:

• the total cost of the project, with supporting evidence
• how the funding was used
• how the Trust’s support contributed to the success of the project
• the benefits delivered to the community
• any recognition or acknowledgement of the Trust
• any other information reasonably requested by the Trust.
• Recipients may also be required to share the Trust’s online impact survey with participants involved in the project or services delivered.

Additional reporting, evaluation requirements, or check-ins may apply depending on the nature of the project, and will be outlined in the funding agreement.

The Trust’s discretion 

The Trust reserves the right to: 

• require applicants to provide additional information
• impose conditions on the approval or payment of funding
• take any other action that it sees fit in relation to the funding process.

Part of the terms and conditions of funding 

• The applicant must detail in their application any actual or potential conflict of interest (including anything that might appear to be a conflict of interest) that could compromise the decision on the application or bring the process or the Trust into disrepute.
• All applicants must disclose to the Trust any other funding sources related to the project (either confirmed or in process), as well as any corporate or commercial sponsorship arrangements.
• Applicants must not directly or indirectly seek to influence funding decisions in any improper or unethical manner (or in any way which might have the appearance of being so), nor attempt to solicit or garner non-public information that might give an unfair advantage in the application process.
• Each applicant warrants that all information provided in relation to its application is true and correct in all material particulars, always, and is not misleading, whether by omission or otherwise. Applicants must disclose all matters likely to be material to the Trust’s consideration of its application or which might have a bearing on the outcomes the Trust expects to be delivered from the funding.
• If circumstances or information change after making an application, or after the awarding of funding, the applicant must immediately notify the Trust.
• Each applicant consents to the Trust carrying out a due diligence review on its application, including the organisations and personnel involved, and relevant track records. The applicant consents to the Trust making enquiries from third parties in this regard and shall provide access to referees upon request.
• All applicants must disclose any affiliation, personal or professional relation with council staff, elected officials, local board members or the Trust’s trustees or employees, or if their immediate family, has any interest or involvement in the event in any way.
• The information the Trust collects from an applicant (such as the names and contact details of officers) is being collected so that the Trust can assess the application for funding.  All personal information provided to the Trust in connection with an application will be held, and may be used or disclosed only in accordance with the Trust Tairāwhiti Privacy Policy and the Privacy Act 2020.  

Download

Rangatahi Focus Fund Application Guidelines

This guide outlines the Rangatahi Focus Funding application process, eligibility requirements, the criteria applications will be assessed against, and requirements for successful applicants.

The Rangatahi Focus Fund supports transformational projects designed with and for rangatahi aged 15–24 in Tairāwhiti. The fund focuses on initiatives that create meaningful opportunities, strengthen wellbeing, and support future pathways for rangatahi across the region.

Objective of the fund

The purpose of the Rangatahi Focus Fund is to improve the wellbeing of rangatahi in Tairāwhiti through strategic investment in high-impact projects.

Projects that demonstrate the potential to create significant, measurable change for rangatahi at scale, rather than one-off or low-impact activities.

Eligibility

To be eligible to apply for funding from the Rangatahi Focus Fund, the applicant must meet the following criteria when the application is made.

Eligible applicants will:

• be a legal entity such as a trust, company, or incorporated society, and must be able to provide evidence of this status if requested OR
• be able to demonstrate it operates with the same standards as one
• have a bank account in the applicant’s name with a minimum of two signatures
• be strategically aligned to the Trust’s priorities and He Rangitapu He Tohu Ora (the waharoa and the region’s wellbeing framework)
• deliver projects that primarily benefit rangatahi aged 15–24 in Tairāwhiti (within the Gisborne District Council territorial authority)
• demonstrate strong collaboration with partners, communities, or stakeholders
• be able to provide evidence of collaboration with relevant groups and stakeholders
• demonstrate community, whanau, hapu, or iwi voice is captured, or the initiative is community, whānau, hapu or iwi-led
• clearly communicate the project or initiative and the outcomes it will achieve
• demonstrate the ability to deliver the proposed project
• secure at least 30% co-funding to support the project
• when procurement is required, work with local businesses and suppliers wherever possible
• demonstrate minimal to no negative impact on the taiao (physical environment).

Co-funding may include confirmed or pending contributions from partners, funders, or sponsors and should be clearly outlined in your application.

Projects may be delivered over multiple years, where applicants can demonstrate clear outcomes for rangatahi, achievable milestones, and the capability to deliver over time.

Ineligibility

We do not provide Rangatahi Focus Fund support for:

• core activities usually funded by local or central government, unless the applicant satisfies the Trust there are extenuating circumstances
• retrospective applications – we can’t fund something that has already taken place before the decision date
• repaying or servicing debt
• refinancing loans, deposits, or underwriting projects
• duplication of similar projects already providing a service unless the applicant satisfies the Trust there are extenuating circumstances
• feasibility studies and preliminary/background work.
• initiatives that do not demonstrate meaningful or measurable outcomes for rangatahi.

Applying for funding

Applications are submitted through a staged Expression of Interest (EOI) process:

Stage 1 — Expression of Interest
Submit an Expression of Interest outlining your project and intended outcomes. Before you apply, please make sure you:

• have read this guide carefully to ensure you understand the fund objective, eligibility, criteria, and reporting requirements
• prepare information required in the application including:
  • a clear description of your project and intended outcomes
  • details of co-funding
  • details of partners or collaborators
  • NZBN or Charities number, and GST number if applicable
  • Pre-coded bank deposit slip, recent bank statement or verified bank document. The applicant’s name needs to be the same as the bank account name.

For a full list of application questions, refer to Application questions.

Stage 2 — Project plan
Eligible applicants are invited to submit a detailed project plan. Detailed requirements for this stage will be provided.

Stage 3 — Panel presentation
Shortlisted applicants will be invited to present their proposal to an assessment panel.
Further information about presentation requirements will be provided.

Stage 4 — Funding decision
Successful applicants are notified following the assessment process.

Not all applications will progress beyond each stage of the process.

Assessment criteria

Applications will be assessed as follows:

• the degree to which they meet the eligibility criteria
• the extent to which they align with the region’s wellbeing framework, He Rangitapu He Tohu Ora
• the degree to which they align with the Trust’s strategic priorities
• the level of collaboration and community involvement
• the strength of the outcomes for rangatahi:
  • life satisfaction and overall wellbeing
  • loneliness and social connection
  • access to meaningful employment, training, or career pathways
  • sense of belonging to neighbourhood and the Tairāwhiti region
  • sense of agency, giving rangatahi the opportunity to shape their future.

Applications for funding will be assessed initially by a funding advisor appointed by the Trust.

Successful applicants

Once funding has been approved, all successful applicants will receive a funding agreement.

This is a formal contract which outlines:

• the amount of funding granted
• any in kind support that the Trust will provide
• project milestones and payment schedule
• expectations and conditions of funding
• reporting requirements, including how outcomes and impact will be measured
• a sunset clause, which outlines the timeframe in which funding must be drawn down. If funding is not uplifted within this period, it may be forfeited.

Funding is released in stages, aligned with agreed milestones.

For multi-year projects, funding may be structured across multiple years and is subject to performance against agreed milestones, reporting, and ongoing delivery.

Reporting requirements

All successful applicants will be required to formally report to the Trust on the use of monies granted.

Recipients may be required to meet with the Trust prior to project completion to agree on how the impact of the project will be measured. Any specific impact measures will be outlined in the funding agreement.

A Project Report must be submitted no later than eight (8) weeks after project completion.

This report must include:

• the total cost of the project, with supporting evidence
• how the funding was used
• how the Trust’s support contributed to the success of the project
• the benefits delivered to the community
• any recognition or acknowledgement of the Trust
• any other information reasonably requested by the Trust.

Recipients must also share the Trust’s online impact survey with participants involved in the project or services delivered.

Additional reporting, evaluation requirements, or check-ins may apply depending on the nature of the project, and will be outlined in the funding agreement.

The Trust’s discretion

The Trust reserves the right to:

• require applicants to provide additional information
• impose conditions on the approval or payment of funding
• take any other action that it sees fit in relation to the funding process.

Part of the terms and conditions of funding

• The applicant must detail in their application any actual or potential conflict of interest (including anything that might appear to be a conflict of interest) that could compromise the decision on the application or bring the process or the Trust into disrepute.
• All applicants must disclose to the Trust any other funding sources related to the project (either confirmed or in process), as well as any corporate or commercial sponsorship arrangements.
• Applicants must not directly or indirectly seek to influence funding decisions in any improper or unethical manner (or in any way which might have the appearance of being so), nor attempt to solicit or garner non-public information that might give an unfair advantage in the application process.
• Each applicant warrants that all information provided in relation to its application is true and correct in all material particulars, always, and is not misleading, whether by omission or otherwise. Applicants must disclose all matters likely to be material to the Trust’s consideration of its application or which might have a bearing on the outcomes the Trust expects to be delivered from the funding.
• If circumstances or information change after making an application, or after the awarding of funding, the applicant must immediately notify the Trust.
• Each applicant consents to the Trust carrying out a due diligence review on its application, including the organisations and personnel involved, and relevant track records. The applicant consents to the Trust making enquiries from third parties in this regard and shall provide access to referees upon request.
• All applicants must disclose any affiliation, personal or professional relation with council staff, elected officials, local board members or the Trust’s trustees or employees, or if their immediate family, has any interest or involvement in the event in any way.
• The information the Trust collects from an applicant (such as the names and contact details of officers) is being collected so that the Trust can assess the application for funding.  All personal information provided to the Trust in connection with an application will be held, and may be used or disclosed only in accordance with the Trust Tairāwhiti Privacy Policy and the Privacy Act 2020.

Taiao Focus Fund Application Guidelines

This guide outlines the Taiao Focus Fund application process, eligibility requirements, the criteria applications will be assessed against, and requirements for successful applicants.

The Taiao Focus Fund supports transformational projects that restore, protect, and enhance the natural environment of Tairāwhiti. We are looking to support high-impact kaupapa that can shift the dial for our taiao and create lasting benefits for future generations. 

Objective of the fund

The purpose of the Taiao Focus Fund is to improve environmental wellbeing in Tairāwhiti through strategic investment in high-impact projects.

Projects that demonstrate the potential to create significant, measurable environmental change at scale, rather than one-off or low-impact activities.

Eligibility

To be eligible to apply for funding from the Taiao Focus Fund, the applicant must meet the following criteria when the application is made.

Eligible applicants will:

• be a legal entity such as a trust, company, or incorporated society, and must be able to provide evidence of this status if requested OR
• be able to demonstrate it operates with the same standards as one
• have a bank account in the applicant’s name with a minimum of two signatures
• be strategically aligned to the Trust’s priorities and He Rangitapu He Tohu Ora (the waharoa and the region’s wellbeing framework)
• deliver projects that benefit the environment of Tairāwhiti (within the Gisborne District Council territorial authority)
• demonstrate strong collaboration with partners, communities, or stakeholders
• demonstrate that community, hapū, iwi, or stakeholder voice is captured, or that the initiative is community-led
• clearly communicate the project or initiative and the environmental outcomes it will achieve.
• demonstrate the ability to deliver the proposed project
• secure at least 30% co-funding to support the project
• when procurement is required, work with local businesses and suppliers wherever possible.

Co-funding may include confirmed or pending contributions from partners, funders, or sponsors and should be clearly outlined in your application

Projects may be delivered over multiple years, where applicants can demonstrate clear outcomes, achievable milestones, and the capability to deliver over time.

Ineligibility

We do not provide Taiao Focus Fund support for:

• core activities usually funded by local or central government, unless the applicant satisfies the Trust there are extenuating circumstances
• retrospective applications – we can’t fund something that has already taken place
• repaying or servicing debt
• ongoing operational or business-as-usual costs
• projects outside of Tairāwhiti
• initiatives that do not demonstrate clear environmental outcomes or measurable impact.
  

Applying for funding

Applications are submitted through a staged Expression of Interest (EOI) process:

Stage 1 — Expression of Interest

Submit an Expression of Interest outlining your project and intended outcomes. Before you apply, please make sure you:

• have read this guide carefully to ensure you understand the fund objective, eligibility, criteria, and reporting requirements
• prepare information required in the application including:
  • A clear description of your project and intended outcomes
  • Details of co-funding
  • Details of partners or collaborators
  • NZBN or Charities number, and GST number if applicable
  • Pre-coded bank deposit slip, recent bank statement or verified bank document. The applicant’s name needs to be the same as the bank account name.

Stage 2 — Project plan
Eligible applicants are invited to submit a detailed project plan. Detailed requirements for this stage will be provided.

Stage 3 — Panel presentation
Shortlisted applicants will be invited to present their proposal to an assessment panel.
Further information about presentation requirements will be provided.

Stage 4 — Funding decision
Successful applicants are notified following the assessment process.

Not all applications will progress beyond each stage of the process.

Assessment criteria

Applications will be assessed as follows:

• the degree to which they meet the eligibility criteria
• the extent to which they align with the region’s wellbeing framework, He Rangitapu He Tohu Ora
• the degree to which they align with the Trust’s strategic priorities
• the level of collaboration and community involvement
• the strength of the measurable environmental outcomes on:
  • health of rivers, lakes, and freshwater systems
  • health of coastal waters and beaches
  • land and soil health
  • native biodiversity and habitat restoration
  • abundance of native species and ecosystems.

Applications for funding will be assessed initially by a funding advisor appointed by the Trust. 

Successful applicants

Once funding has been approved, all successful applicants will receive a funding agreement.

This is a formal contract which outlines:

• the amount of funding granted
• any in kind support that the Trust will provide
• project milestones and payment schedule
• expectations and conditions of funding
• reporting requirements, including how outcomes and impact will be measured
• a sunset clause, which outlines the timeframe in which funding must be drawn down. If funding is not uplifted within this period, it may be forfeited.

Funding is released in stages, aligned with agreed milestones.

For multi-year projects, funding may be structured across multiple years and is subject to performance against agreed milestones, reporting, and ongoing delivery.

Reporting requirements

All successful applicants will be required to formally report to the Trust on the use of monies granted.

Recipients may be required to meet with the Trust prior to project completion to agree on how the impact of the project will be measured. Any specific impact measures will be outlined in the funding agreement.

A Project Report must be submitted no later than eight (8) weeks after project completion.

This report must include:

• the total cost of the project, with supporting evidence
• how the funding was used
• how the Trust’s support contributed to the success of the project
• the benefits delivered to the community
• any recognition or acknowledgement of the Trust
• any other information reasonably requested by the Trust.

Recipients must also share the Trust’s online impact survey with participants involved in the project or services delivered.

Additional reporting, evaluation requirements, or check-ins may apply depending on the nature of the project, and will be outlined in the funding agreement.

The Trust’s discretion

The Trust reserves the right to:

• require applicants to provide additional information
• impose conditions on the approval or payment of funding
• take any other action that it sees fit in relation to the funding process.

Part of the terms and conditions of funding

• The applicant must detail in their application any actual or potential conflict of interest (including anything that might appear to be a conflict of interest) that could compromise the decision on the application or bring the process or the Trust into disrepute.
• All applicants must disclose to the Trust any other funding sources related to the project (either confirmed or in process), as well as any corporate or commercial sponsorship arrangements.
• Applicants must not directly or indirectly seek to influence funding decisions in any improper or unethical manner (or in any way which might have the appearance of being so), nor attempt to solicit or garner non-public information that might give an unfair advantage in the application process.
• Each applicant warrants that all information provided in relation to its application is true and correct in all material particulars, always, and is not misleading, whether by omission or otherwise. Applicants must disclose all matters likely to be material to the Trust’s consideration of its application or which might have a bearing on the outcomes the Trust expects to be delivered from the funding.
• If circumstances or information change after making an application, or after the awarding of funding, the applicant must immediately notify the Trust.
• Each applicant consents to the Trust carrying out a due diligence review on its application, including the organisations and personnel involved, and relevant track records. The applicant consents to the Trust making enquiries from third parties in this regard and shall provide access to referees upon request.
• All applicants must disclose any affiliation, personal or professional relation with council staff, elected officials, local board members or the Trust’s trustees or employees, or if their immediate family, has any interest or involvement in the event in any way.
• The information the Trust collects from an applicant (such as the names and contact details of officers) is being collected so that the Trust can assess the application for funding.  All personal information provided to the Trust in connection with an application will be held, and may be used or disclosed only in accordance with the 
• Trust Tairāwhiti Privacy Policy and the Privacy Act 2020.

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