All applicants will be notified by email on the result of their application in around 8 weeks after the closing date of the 11th October 2023 (i.e. ~ early December 2023).
Purpose
The New Zealand High Commission Fund (the Fund) supports small scale, short-term community projects. Projects must be in line with the New Zealand International Development Cooperation (IDC) (formerly NZAID) Programme’s mission of sustainable development.
Applications for the Fund 2023/2024 Fund Round
Applications open: Friday 1 September 2023
Applications close: 2pm, Wednesday 11 October 2023
Who can apply
The Fund is aimed primarily at community groups and non-government organisations but other types of organisations e.g. PTAs, schools, business associations, may apply. The community group, NGO, or organisation must be locally-based in the Cook Islands and implementing their proposed project within the Cook Islands.
The Fund does not support individual businesses.
Priority theme
The theme for the 2023/24 Round is:
- Turanga Memeitaki / Well-being for all
Our focus will be on supporting initiatives that contribute to the well-being and vitality of Cook Islands communities, whether through supporting children and youth, women, LGBTQI+, people with disabilities, elderly or other groups or activities that bring a community-wide benefit. Projects for the Pa Enua are strongly encouraged.
Project duration
Approved projects must be completed within one (1) year from signing of the Grant Fund Letter.
Though all invoices must be submitted with payments disbursed no later than 15 June 2024.
Budget
The maximum level of funding per project application is NZ$25,000.
Project implementation
Please plan for expected implementation in late 2023–mid 2024 and ensure your Implementation Plan clearly illustrates the key stages of your project from start to finish.
In effect, we are requesting a project timeline of key tasks for the project with resources required identified. This timeline and/or the complexity/reach of the project will also determine the frequency of reporting that will be required.
Project budget summary
Please clearly show what your project costings are for your project.
Please clearly show what costs you would like the Fund to contribute to and which other sources of funding will cover the project costs in your proposal. You must provide all quotations/invoices for the costs you wish the Fund to cover. These must accurately reflect the cost of services and/or goods.
What will not be funded
- political, religious or evangelical activities
N.B. faith-based groups are not excluded where the proposed project is consistent with the purpose of the Fund, does not exclude followers of other religions, and the funds are not used to support proselytising - site visits
- unsolicited donations
- individual student scholarships
- international airfares/overseas conference attendance
In addition, applications for the following activities will not be considered:
- Office equipment including desktops, laptops, tablets, and mobile phones
- Purchase or hire of vehicles, including tractors, motor cycles/mopeds, and ride-on-mowers
- Salaries or personnel subsidies
- Land preparation
- Attire
Application process
Applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.
Please ensure you read the criteria thoroughly before submitting an application. As resources are limited we will prioritise projects that align with the theme and criteria.
Late and incomplete applications will not be considered.
All applicants will be notified by email on the result of their application approximately 8 weeks after the closing date.
For enquiries and to submit your application
- Download the application form below and email it to: NZHC.RRO@mfat.govt.nz