25 August 2009
Calling all community groups – if you are planning an arts, performance or cultural event, funding grants are available from the Waipa Community Arts Council, a third party relationship between Creative NZ and Waipa District Council.
Projects must meet at least one of three criteria – that the project will increase community participation in the arts, the range and diversity of the arts available in the community, or enhance and strengthen local arts.
Over the last year a diverse range of groups and projects have benefited from the grants scheme including art exhibitions in both Te Awamutu and Pirongia, school holiday programmes, stage performances, and uniforms for choristers and the local pipe band. Te Awamutu Brass Band also receives support towards its instrument purchases.
Waipa DC’s Leisure Officer Andrea Duncan encourages all groups to get in touch.
“We have two grant rounds each year, with about $7000 at each to allocate. We know every bit helps when you are a small community group, and a grant can often be the difference between an event going ahead or not, which is why it is important that groups are aware that the grant scheme exists.”
Any group, organisation or individual from Te Awamutu, Kakepuku or Pirongia wards can apply. The grants have cut off dates of September 30 and April 30, and can be lodged at any time. Funds for this round will be allocated in October.
For a full list of criteria and application forms, log onto www.waipadc.govt.nz under Community and Recreation, or pick up from the council offices in Bank Street.
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