Creative Communities Scheme

The Creative Communities Scheme (CCS) is a nationwide community arts funding programme administered by Creative New Zealand and delivered through local councils. It supports grassroots arts projects that make a real difference in local communities across Aotearoa.

Grants are typically under $5,000 NZD, though there is no formal upper limit. Funding is distributed through local councils, who run between two and four funding rounds per year. Applications are assessed by a local committee with knowledge of arts and community life in your area.

Who can apply?

Individuals who are New Zealand citizens or permanent residents, and groups based in New Zealand. If you've previously received CCS funding, you'll need to have submitted a completion report before applying again (unless your current project is still underway).

What kinds of projects are supported?

Your project must support at least one of three criteria

• Access and participation – creating opportunities for local communities to engage with the arts, such as community performances, workshops, exhibitions, festivals, artist residencies, or public artworks.
• Diversity – supporting the diverse artistic and cultural traditions of local communities, including Māori, Pasifika, migrant, LGBTQIA+, and disability communities.
• Young people – enabling people under 18 to engage with and participate in the arts, such as youth-led murals, films, music workshops, or writing projects.

Projects must take place within the city or district where you apply, must be completed within 12 months of funding approval, and must not have started before funding is approved.

What costs are covered?

Funding can cover materials, venue or equipment hire, short-term personnel and administrative costs, promotion, and food for community arts activities.

What's not funded?

Equipment purchases, travel costs, prize money, royalties, debt, fundraising activities, facility development, or projects that are part of a school's core curriculum.

To apply, contact your local council or CCS Manager to find out about upcoming funding rounds in your area. More information is available at www.creativenz.govt.nz.