The New Zealand High Commission in Pretoria invites applications under the Fund each year for projects implemented by organisations in South Africa, Angola, Botswana, eSwatini, Lesotho, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
The primary objective of the Fund is to support community-based projects that contribute towards sustainable development in order to reduce poverty and contribute to a secure, equitable and prosperous world. Applications must align with New Zealand's International Development Cooperation programme purpose to develop shared prosperity and stability.
Organisations able to apply for the Fund include community development organisations, registered non-governmental organisations (NGOs), schools, local government agencies, local small business associations and women or marginalised peoples' and entrepreneurship groups.
In the 2026/27 funding round, the High Commission Fund is targeting projects focused in the areas of:
- women's empowerment including the elimination of gender-based violence;
- youth empowerment and economic development;
- climate adaptation and resilience.
Funding is available up to a maximum of NZ$50,000 (or local currency equivalent) per project.
2026/27 application round
The application process for the 2026/27 funding round is divided into two phases:
- Phase 1: Applicants must complete an Expression of Interest (EOI) form through an online form.
- Phase 2: Shortlisted applicants from Phase 1 will be invited to submit a detailed HEF application form, which will include a requirement to complete a detailed budget, implementation plan and health and safety plan.
Expressions of interest (Phase 1) for the 2026/27 funding round opened on Monday 19 October 2026 and will close on Sunday 1 November (SAST).
Information about the 2026/27 funding round, including the link to the online form for Phase 1, can be found in the below linked PDF document.