Creative Communities Scheme

Creative Communities Scheme Funding Round Now Open

Applications are now open for the latest Creative Communities Scheme (CCS) funding round, offering financial support for arts and creative projects across the Coromandel Peninsula.

If you have an idea for a creative project, exhibition, workshop, performance, festival, public artwork or community arts initiative, now is the time to apply. Applications are open from the 3rd of August until 5.00 pm on the 28th of August 2026 for projects taking place between October 2026 and the 1st of October 2027.

The Creative Communities Scheme is funded by Creative New Zealand and exists to strengthen local arts and culture by supporting projects that increase participation, celebrate diversity, and encourage creativity throughout our communities.

Creative Coromandel has been entrusted with assessing applications from across the Thames-Coromandel district and recommending funding allocations. Successful grants are then awarded and administered by Thames-Coromandel District Council (TCDC).

Who can apply?

Applications are welcome from both individuals and community groups. Individual applicants must be New Zealand citizens or permanent residents, and funding is awarded to projects rather than individuals.

Projects should meet one or more of the following objectives:

Access and participation:

Creating opportunities for people to engage with and participate in local arts activities.

Diversity:

Celebrating and supporting the diverse arts and cultural traditions that make our communities unique.

Young people:

Enabling and encouraging people under 18 years of age to actively participate in the arts.

Whether you’re planning a community mural, music event, theatre production, creative workshop, cultural festival, artist residency, exhibition, or another arts initiative, CCS funding could help bring your vision to life.

Local people supporting local creativity

One of the strengths of the Creative Communities Scheme is that applications are assessed by local people with a strong understanding of the Coromandel Peninsula’s arts sector and communities. Creative Coromandel’s assessment panel includes representatives from across the district who are passionate about supporting creative opportunities that enrich the region.

Each application is carefully considered against the funding criteria, with applicants typically notified of the outcome shortly after the assessment meeting.

Where does the funding come from?

The Creative Communities Scheme is a nationwide programme funded by Creative New Zealand, with investment from the New Zealand Government through the New Zealand Lottery Grants Board and the Ministry for Culture and Heritage. Funding is distributed locally through district councils, ensuring decisions are made by people who understand the needs and opportunities within their own communities.

Ready to apply?

If you’ve been waiting for the right opportunity to turn a creative idea into reality, this could be it.

Applications close at 5.00 pm on Friday 28 August 2026.

Visit the Thames-Coromandel District Council website to read the funding criteria, download the application forms, and access the Creative Communities Scheme application guide. You can also subscribe to the Creative Coromandel e-newsletter to stay informed about future funding rounds, workshops, and opportunities for creatives across the Coromandel Peninsula.