A new community fund is coming

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The Community Investment Fund is a new rates-funded contestable fund designed to support significant community-led facilities across the Western Bay of Plenty District.

It aims to help larger projects get off the ground where Council doesn't directly provide the facility, and give organisations an opportunity to leverage funding from other sources. Projects will need to show community demand and that they can be delivered and operated sustainably.

Already approved through the Long Term Plan and Annual Plan, the fund is now at the framework stage. We’re asking for your feedback on the proposed framework which will guide how the fund operates.

Funding will come from a contribution through rates of $25 per property in this financial year. The amount for future years will be considered next year through the Long Term Plan 2027-37.

Around $700,000 is expected to be available in the first funding round next year.

Have questions? Check out our frequently asked questions for more information.

Please note: We’re asking for feedback on the proposed framework only and are not accepting applications or project proposals at this stage. Applications will open in 2027, after the final framework has been adopted by Council.

Tell us your thoughts below

We’re keen to hear your thoughts on the proposed principles, application process and assessment criteria for the Community Investment Fund.

Feedback closes at 4pm, Monday 23 November 2026.

The Community Investment Fund is a new rates-funded contestable fund designed to support significant community-led facilities across the Western Bay of Plenty District.

It aims to help larger projects get off the ground where Council doesn't directly provide the facility, and give organisations an opportunity to leverage funding from other sources. Projects will need to show community demand and that they can be delivered and operated sustainably.

Already approved through the Long Term Plan and Annual Plan, the fund is now at the framework stage. We’re asking for your feedback on the proposed framework which will guide how the fund operates.

Funding will come from a contribution through rates of $25 per property in this financial year. The amount for future years will be considered next year through the Long Term Plan 2027-37.

Around $700,000 is expected to be available in the first funding round next year.

Have questions? Check out our frequently asked questions for more information.

Please note: We’re asking for feedback on the proposed framework only and are not accepting applications or project proposals at this stage. Applications will open in 2027, after the final framework has been adopted by Council.

Tell us your thoughts below

We’re keen to hear your thoughts on the proposed principles, application process and assessment criteria for the Community Investment Fund.

Feedback closes at 4pm, Monday 23 November 2026.