Mayor Grant Smith says “next year’s 150th celebration offers the city a chance to reflect on the history of our community and celebrate what the future might look like for our next generations”.
We’re inviting community groups to put forward their ideas for showcasing and celebrating the city’s unique heritage and its bright future through small-scale events, with the maximum amount of funding per application being $2,000.
PNCC Head of Events & Partnerships Tasha Paladin says we really want to enable community event contributions towards celebrating this milestone. “We know there will be people within the community with 150th event ideas fizzing away – and we want to help you bring these ideas to life through seed funding and event advice.”
Councillor Rachel Bowen, who chairs the Council’s Arts, Culture and Heritage Committee, encourages groups to think about how they might make vibrant use of the fund.
This is an opportunity to inject city positivity and pride, encourage inclusivity and celebrate our diversity, bolster our Covid-19 recovery, and attract people into the city.
Cr Rachel Bowen
There are two rounds for funding applications. The first round is open now and closes on 30 September. The second round runs from 1 April to 31 May next year. Groups that can apply include charitable trusts, incorporated societies, and limited or registered companies which can hold and arrange events.
There are criteria towards a successful application, including that the event:
- be held within Palmerston North
- be attractive to city visitors
- supports Palmerston North’s eco-city vision and use sustainable practices
- sees opportunities to use local businesses and contractors
- be public-facing (not a trade show or convention).
Event organisers will need to declare additional funding or koha/donations their events attract, and will be responsible for complying with regulations, including gaining permits and consents.
For more information and to apply, head to our SmartyGrants community funding site
If you have questions about the fund, email 150funding@pncc.govt.nz.
