Our funding works to support the people, places and projects making a difference in our community here in the Western Bay of Plenty and Tauranga.
We have a number of different funding schemes to assist community organisations with their initiatives. Check them out below.
Application Process
We recommend you contact our office to discuss your project before completing the online application form. Please ensure applications are submitted at least 3 months prior to when you require a decision. Our team are always happy to discuss your application with you and to offer guidance and advice.
In order to simplify the application process and minimise the administrative burden on grant-seekers, TECT has moved to an online application service, powered by SmartyGrants. The SmartyGrants system allows you to easily complete and submit your funding application for the Community Development and Community Facilities funds online. Questions are tailored to the fund you are applying for, so you will only be prompted to fill out information that is absolutely necessary. The application doesn’t have to be completed all in one go; you are able to save a draft and come back to it later.
The application & approval process takes 7 weeks from the cut-off date. As part of the assessment process, we may visit you to discuss your application in more detail.
Decisions on applications are made by trustees at their monthly meeting and we will advise you of the outcome soon after. Successful applicants receive a formal Funding Offer & Agreement. Payment of grants will be made once conditions in the agreement are met. Generally, organisations have 1 year to uplift the funds.
Community Facilities
Application cut off dates: 1 April, 1 September
Funding in this category is targeted towards the build of new facilities or the purchase/upgrade of an existing facility. The facility must have significant community benefit; providing places our community can enjoy spending time in the Western Bay. Examples include new buildings, halls, sports centres and playgrounds. Smaller applications may be considered out of round, please contact our office for details.
Community Development
Application cut off dates: 1st of every month
Funding in this category is targeted towards supporting community organisations and the work they do to enhance the lives of those in our community. Examples include equipment, operating costs, one-off project and technology purchases. A separate schools policy applies - please contact our office to find out more.
Community Events
Funding applications for small to medium community-led events are now being received via the Tauranga Western Bay Community Event Fund. This is a collaboration between Acorn Foundation, Bay Trust, Tauranga City Council, TECT and Western Bay of Plenty District Council to provide a streamlined approach to the support of community events taking place in the region. The fund provides financial support to events that are community-led and enrich our communities. Applications are considered on a bi-monthly basis. Learn more, and apply HERE.
Note: applications for large events, such as City Flagship Events and new events of national or international significance, will still be submitted directly to TECT on a monthly basis. Please contact our office for further clarification.
Facilities of Regional Significance
Application cut off dates: on application
This fund is targeted towards significant facilities that deliver inter-generational benefits to our community. Examples include: TECT All Terrain Park, TECT Arena, Baywave TECT Aquatic & Leisure Centre.
Catalyst for Change
Application cut off dates: on application
This fund seeks to create positive change in our community through supporting innovative projects. We will undertake research to identify key issues facing our district and allocate funding to the improvement and development of these key areas. It is envisioned that TECT will initiate these projects with community groups and will fund 2-3 key projects per year.