About Organisation
Auckland Council is the regional authority responsible for shaping the cultural, social, and environmental landscape of Auckland, New Zealand’s largest metropolitan region. The council plays a pivotal role in promoting inclusive growth and fostering community well-being through innovative initiatives and public engagement. Among its core priorities is the advancement of arts, culture, and creativity as vital components of civic life. Through funding programs like the Creative Communities Scheme (CCS), Auckland Council empowers individuals and groups to use the arts as a means of connection, expression, and identity building. Its vision focuses on making creativity accessible to everyone, regardless of age, background, or ability. The council also prioritizes diversity by ensuring representation from Māori, Pasifika, migrant, and LGBTQIA+ communities, alongside individuals with disabilities or mental health experiences. By offering financial assistance to local creative projects, Auckland Council aims to enhance public participation, support cultural traditions, and nurture young talent. Its dedication to fostering creativity in shared spaces—such as parks, community halls, and galleries—reflects a broader commitment to inclusivity, community resilience, and a thriving creative economy.
About the Grant
The Creative Communities Scheme (CCS) supports arts initiatives that make creativity an integral part of everyday life in Auckland. It provides funding for projects that encourage community participation in the arts, celebrate cultural diversity, and empower young people to engage creatively. Activities can include performances, exhibitions, workshops, festivals, community films, murals, residencies, and public artworks that take place in both indoor and outdoor spaces. The scheme welcomes projects that bring people together, tell community stories, and highlight Auckland’s cultural richness. While there is no fixed funding limit, most successful applications receive under NZD 5,000. Funding can be used for materials, venue or equipment hire, short-term staffing, administration, publicity, and food for artists or participants. However, ongoing costs, equipment purchases, or completed projects are not eligible. The CCS operates through local assessment committees with expertise in arts and community development, ensuring that decisions reflect the unique cultural fabric of each area. By offering accessible financial support, the grant helps artists and community groups turn creative ideas into experiences that inspire participation, belonging, and shared pride. Ultimately, it builds stronger, more connected communities through the universal language of art.
Who can Apply?
Applications for the Creative Communities Scheme are open to both individuals and groups who are based in New Zealand. Individuals must be New Zealand citizens or permanent residents, while groups should demonstrate a clear community focus and commitment to delivering accessible creative outcomes. Eligible applicants include artists, cultural practitioners, community organizations, schools, and local collectives. Each proposal should demonstrate how the project will involve the community, promote diversity, or engage youth under 18 in creative activities. Projects can focus on a wide range of art forms, including dance, music, theatre, visual arts, poetry, film-making, or traditional crafts. Applicants who have previously received CCS funding must submit a completion report for that project before applying again, unless it is still in progress. Ineligible applicants include those seeking funding for ongoing operations, projects already completed, or initiatives that do not align with the scheme’s objectives. Applications are reviewed by a local assessment committee familiar with community arts, ensuring that decisions reflect regional priorities and cultural values. The CCS aims to reach as many communities as possible, supporting both emerging and established creators whose work contributes to Auckland’s diverse and dynamic artistic landscape.
How to Apply?
Applicants must complete the official Creative Communities Scheme application form provided by Auckland Council. The form requires project details, including name, description, location, timeline, expected participants, art form, and budget. Supporting documents may include samples of previous work or community endorsements. Applications are reviewed by local arts committees, and successful applicants must submit a completion report upon project conclusion.
Application Deadline
The Creative Communities Scheme accepts applications until 15 February 2026, with additional local rounds held two to four times yearly depending on council scheduling and community needs.
Last Date To Apply
For more information, please visit the grant website here.
