Applications are open to help fund any amazing new creative projects in the Ōpōtiki District. Individuals and groups who have eligible art projects should apply for a funding grant this month.
The New Zealand Creative Communities Scheme – Opotiki District is aimed at increasing participation in the arts at a local level and expanding the range and diversity of arts available within the district.
Opotiki District Council’s Mercedes Neems administers the scheme. She explained that the funding had helped numerous projects around the town, benefits artists, groups and the wider community with an active and vibrant community-arts scene.
“Ōpōtiki has an incredible and diverse arts scene and this funding is available to get people motivated and engaged and active in the arts space. Sometimes it is just the push people need to get their arts project off the ground.
“Research shows that involvement in art is beneficial for individuals and art in our communities has benefits for all of us as a whole. A healthy arts scene is strongly linked to heathy communities,” Ms Neems said.
There is approximately $20,000 to allocate each year in two funding rounds. Projects such as art, dance, drama, literature, music, seminars, workshops and community art and cultural events may be eligible.
Funding applications are considered by an assessment committee made up of dedicated representatives from the Opotiki district.
Applications open today (Wednesday 5 April 2023) and close on Thursday 27 April 2023. Details including application forms, criteria and guides are available at on our Creative Communities Scheme page.
