Gisborne Creative Communities funding round under way

The first round of Creative Communities funding run by the council has opened for the year. People keen to apply for projects like this rangatahi mural in Kaiti have until the end of the month.

The first Creative Communities funding round of 2025 administered by Gisborne District Council is open for applications.

Twice a year the council distributes funding to support the arts in the district.

The first round has opened and applications close on Friday, February 28.

“We encourage you to have a look at the fund criteria, ask the council any questions you might have, and then go forth and make more local arts activities and experiences for our community,” the council posted on social media.

The Gizzy Local community online platform was a recipient in a previous round and has urged people to apply.

“As far as funding applications go, it was a fairly easy process to navigate. Your project may be just what our community need.”

Examples of the types of projects that can be funded are:

• Community choirs, dance groups, theatre companies, musicians, poets, etc.
• Workshops such as printmaking, writing and dancing.
• Local art and craft groups promoting weaving, pottery, carving etc.
• Festivals featuring local artists.
• Creation of a community film or a public artwork.
• Artist residencies involving local artists or communities.
• Seminars for local artist development.
• Creation of new tukutuku, whakairo or kōwhaiwhai for a local marae.

For more information, go to Te Kaunihera Council at the top of the Gisborne District Council website home page, then go to Funding Streams.