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Funding and grants
Ngā kaupapa Auaha a Hapori

Creative Communities Scheme

Do you have a story to tell, a stage to light up, or an artistic idea to explore? You might be able to get help to bring your creative vision to life through the Creative Communities Scheme (CCS). This is a partnership between Creative New Zealand (the national arts development agency) and local councils.

The scheme helps to fund local arts projects that:

  • create opportunities for local communities to engage with and participate in arts activities
  • increase and support the diverse arts and cultural traditions of local communities, enriching and promoting their uniqueness and cultural diversity
  • enable and encourage young people (under 18 years) to engage and actively participate in the arts.

New Plymouth District Council’s CCS is open for applications twice a year. Successful applicants usually receive a grant of $500 to $2500.

Applications for the next round open July 2025
 

Things to know before you apply

Eligibility Criteria and Application Guide
Read the Creative NZ CCS Application Guide to find out if your project is eligible, learn about the application process, and get some handy tips for your application.

Our strategic priorities 

The NPDC Creative Communities Advisory Committee is made up of Councillors and members of the community who are passionate about our thriving arts scene.

The committee has identified their local strategic priorities for the next round of funding to help them align with national priorities and make strong decisions for the arts in our district. The priorities are:

  • Funding fewer projects larger amounts to help ensure their success.
  • Focusing on grassroots initiatives with community outcomes.
  • Supporting emerging practitioners and initiatives.
  • Supporting applicants who have a plan to achieve financial self-sustainability.
  • Focusing on creative ideas rather than the practice of a skill.
  • Supporting projects where there is a funding shortfall rather than profit, and where applicants have considered what other funding streams are available.

Not sure where to start?

Creative Taranaki is running a series of workshops while the funding round is open to help you better understand the priorities and funding process.

Contact Creative Taranaki at trust@creativetaranaki.org or find them on social media to register.

Fund details
Who can apply:
 Individuals and community groups. Projects must take place within New Plymouth District and benefit local communities.
Funding length:
 One year. Projects must be completed within 12 months of funding being approved.
How do I apply:
 Through our online funding portal SmartyGrants. You will need to log in and fill out an application form.
Confirmation and decision process. 
  • After submitting your application, you will receive an automated email confirmation that your application has been received.
  • The Creative Communities Advisory Committee meets 6-7 weeks after applications close.  If you indicated you wish to speak to your application, known as giving a presentation, we will be in touch to let you know the details.
  • Within five working days of the committee meeting, you will receive an email letting you know the outcome of your application.
How do I get the funds?
 Once we know the outcome of your application, we'll ask you to send us an invoice.
After your project
 We would love to know how your project went. Please complete the acquittal report attached to your SmartyGrants account within two months of completion of your project.

Page last updated: 12:47pm Fri 09 May 2025

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06 759 6060 enquiries@npdc.govt.nz
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