Community groups across the Western Bay of Plenty are being urged to apply for a share of $170,000 in council cash, with applications now open for the district’s annual Community Matching Fund.

Western Bay of Plenty District Council said it has opened applications for the fund, which supports grassroots projects delivering social, recreational, cultural and environmental benefits.

This year’s total includes $110,000 through the General Fund for community-focused initiatives and $60,000 through the Environmental Fund for projects that support and protect the natural environment.

The matching fund is designed to back community-led efforts already underway, with the council contributing up to 50% of a project’s total cost. Applicants are required to match the remaining value through volunteer time, donated skills, materials, fundraising or other contributions.

Western Bay of Plenty District Council general manager strategy and community Annika Lane said the fund recognises the strength of collective effort in local communities.

“Amazing things can be achieved when people come together with a shared goal and combine their time, skills and resources,” she said.

“We encourage community groups and organisations to think about projects that will make a lasting difference and apply for funding.”

Support is available for eligible initiatives and pilot programmes, one-off community events, equipment and materials, environmental projects, and communication or education initiatives.

Some operating costs directly tied to delivering a funded activity may also be considered.

Since launching eight years ago, the Community Matching Fund has supported a wide range of projects across the district.

Among last year’s recipients was Te Ranga School, which received $5000 towards a new junior play space featuring a sensory garden, stream, mud kitchen, sandpit and performance stage.

Principal Aimee Kennedy said the space has had a significant impact on students and the wider community.

“We’re absolutely thrilled with the outcome of our new junior play space. This area has brought creativity and imaginative play back to life for our tamariki,” she said.

“Not only are students having fun, but they are also developing important social, fine motor, and gross motor skills through play.

“This project has been a game-changer for our school, and it has been fantastic to see members of our wider community enjoying the space outside of school hours as well.”

To support applicants, council is hosting a series of drop-in sessions across the district where people can ask questions about the fund and application process. Sessions will run from July 13 to July 17 at locations including Te Puke, Ōmokoroa, Katikati, Waihī Beach and Maketū.

Applications close on July 31, after which proposals will be assessed and recommendations made to a council panel comprising councillors Margaret Murray-Benge, Allan Sole and Laura Rae.

Further information, including eligibility criteria and application details, is available on the Western Bay of Plenty District Council website.