From bright ideas to big impact: funding available for local projects
Published on 16 July 2026
Got an idea you've always wanted to make happen? Three community and arts funding opportunities opening over the coming month could help turn it into reality.
Whether you're planning a neighbourhood project, an exciting arts event, or a workshop to help grow local performing arts talent, there could be funding available to help bring your idea to life.
Our Community-Led Initiatives Fund is now open for applications. The fund supports small projects and events that are led by the community, for the community, helping make Palmerston North a more creative, connected, safe and sustainable place to live. Priority is given to new and innovative ideas.
Applications for our Arts Event Fund are also now open. The fund supports regional and national arts events that bring people into the city, especially those that attract audiences, celebrate creativity, and contribute to Palmerston North's reputation as a vibrant arts city.
The Council also administers the Arts Heart educational development scheme on behalf of the Palmerston North Performing Arts Trust. Funding from The Trust provides small grants to empower performing arts organisations to deliver development projects that nurture and build the skill of emerging artists.
First-time applicants encouraged across all three funds
General Manager of Customer and Community, Danelle Whakatihi says: “We’re really keen to hear from people with fresh ideas that will benefit our community. If you've ever thought 'someone should do that', this could be your chance to make it happen.”
She also encourages anyone wanting to explore funding opportunities in more detail to come along to this year's Community Funding Expo on Thursday 23 July at the Palmerston North Conference and Function Centre.
"The Community Funding Expo is a great opportunity for anyone who wants to learn more about possible funding for a project or initiative," she says.
"It’s a free event which brings together a wide range of local funding organisations under one roof, so people can find out what's available, ask questions, and speak directly with funders."
Guests to this year’s expo will be able to talk directly with funders, attend workshops on how to write strong funding applications, learn tips on using AI to support applications and reporting, and hear from a panel discussing the current funding landscape.
Whether you're looking for funding now or planning ahead, the expo is a great opportunity to discover what's available, make connections, and find the right funding for your next project.
Community funding