
Funding
FUNDING
We connect artists with funding grants primarily through Nelson City Creative Communities schemes.
Arts Funding
We are currently accepting applications for the third round of funding, for projects taking place between mid-December 2025 and mid-April 2026. Please submit your application by 11th November for consideration.
Please download an application form and guide. Email completed forms to our Community Arts Manager,
Lloyd Harwood : lloyd@acn.org.nz
Pātai or questions? Get in touch with Lloyd for help with your application: lloyd@acn.org.nz.
A hard copy of the application form is available to pick up from Refinery ArtSpace, 114 Hardy St, Nelson.
Nelson City Creative Communities Scheme
Apply for a grant to support a creative project in Nelson City, that benefits the community.
There are three funding rounds each year. Groups or individuals can apply to fund projects that meet one or more of the following criteria:
Broad Community Involvement - the project will create opportunities for local communities to engage with and participate in arts activities.
Diversity - The project will support the diverse arts and cultural traditions of local communities, enriching and promoting their uniqueness.
Young People - The project will enable and encourage young people (under 18) to participate and engage in the arts.
Grant are allocated up to $1,500, although projects requiring greater assistance will be considered.
Arts Council Nelson administers the Nelson City Creative Communities Scheme on behalf of Creative New Zealand and Nelson City Council.
How to Apply
Closing Dates for Applications:
11th of March – for projects taking place between mid-April & mid-August.
11th July – for projects taking place between mid-August & mid-December.
11th November – for projects taking place between mid-December & mid-April.
Funding decisions are usually confirmed within five weeks from closing dates.
Grant Allocations for 2024/2025:
NZ Choral federation $1,400, NZ Bands $1,000
Toy Murchie $400
NAATA Indian Community $1,000
Audrey Anderson $2,102
Nelson Community Venues $1,000
Karen Oertly CFFW $2,501
Arts Council Nelson $1,400
Vicki Smith & Community Artworks $1,800
NZ Highland Dance $800
NZ Organ Association $1,000
Commotion Youth Music $2,000
Eva Vogt Kerer $500
Rosa Coutts $1,000
Arts Council Nelson $1,000
Kathaleen Bartha $1,000
Monica Pausina $500
Nelson Community Potters $500
Piece of Work Productions $1,000
Breffni O’Rourke $1,000
James Risner $365
Karolina Gorton $1,000
Alliance Francaise $1,500
Health Action Trust $920
Vicki Smith $1,000
Nelson Jazz Club $1,000
Alicia Rocha $820
Āwhio $2,500
Cultural Conversations $1,050
Tasman Broadcasting Trust $1,200
Magenta Creative Space $1,410
Ministry of Inspiration Amy Cornelissen $1,928
NCG – Whānau Ārahi $1,500
Nelson Festivals Trust $2,150
New Zealand Organ Assoc $950
Pasefika Arts & Culture Collective $1,400
Rock Quest Charitable Trust $2,000
Tell Tales Collective $1,550
Zoe Dee $1,500
Pablo Salas $1,745.