Request for Proposals: Welcoming Communities Fund (New Zealand)

The Hamilton City Council Welcoming Communities Fund provides grants of up to $5,000 to support new initiatives that foster inclusion, civic engagement, equitable access, economic opportunity, and welcoming public spaces for newcomers and diverse communities. The fund prioritizes collaborative projects that align with the city’s Welcoming Plan and the international Welcoming Communities Standard adapted for New Zealand.

The Welcoming Communities Fund supports projects that help newcomers feel included, connected, and empowered in Hamilton. It promotes initiatives aligned with inclusive leadership, equitable access, civic participation, cultural respect, and economic engagement.

Programme Objectives

The fund is designed to:

• Foster inclusive and connected communities

• Promote equitable access to services, employment, and economic opportunities

• Encourage civic engagement and participation among newcomers

• Support welcoming public spaces and cultural activities

• Strengthen collaborative initiatives with community organisations

Key Priorities

Projects should focus on:

• Inclusive leadership and welcoming communications

• Economic development, business, and employment for newcomers

• Civic engagement and community participation

• Culture, identity, and celebration of diversity

• Development of new initiatives or extensions of existing programmes

Eligibility Criteria

Eligible applicants must:

• Be legally constituted not-for-profit community organisations

• Have operated for at least 12 months

• Demonstrate capacity to deliver the proposed project

• Maintain proper records and adhere to accountability requirements

• Propose new initiatives or extensions benefiting newcomers

Ineligible applicants include:

• Political organisations or social clubs

• Projects already substantially funded by Hamilton City Council

• Retrospective funding requests or repayment of debt

• Activities already considered business-as-usual

Funding Details

• Grant limit: $5,000 per project

• Funding is intended for new or enhanced initiatives benefiting newcomers

• Collaborative projects with multiple partners are encouraged

How to Apply

1. Confirm your organisation meets all eligibility requirements

2. Develop a project proposal aligned with Welcoming Plan outcomes

3. Prepare a budget not exceeding $5,000

4. Submit your application via the Hamilton City Council grant portal

5. Ensure all terms, conditions, and accountability measures are acknowledged

Expected Outcomes

• Increased inclusion and connectedness for newcomers

• Enhanced access to civic, cultural, and economic opportunities

• Strengthened collaboration between community organisations and local authorities

• More welcoming public spaces and cultural initiatives in Hamilton

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Requesting funding for business-as-usual activities

• Submitting proposals exceeding the grant limit

• Applying with insufficient organisational capacity

• Failing to demonstrate alignment with Welcoming Plan outcomes

• Seeking retrospective funding or debt repayment

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Who can apply?
Legally constituted not-for-profit community organisations operating in Hamilton for at least 12 months.

What types of projects are eligible?
New initiatives or extensions of existing programmes that support inclusion, civic engagement, economic opportunity, and cultural integration for newcomers.

How much funding is available per project?
Up to $5,000.

Can collaborative projects apply?
Yes, projects involving multiple community partners are encouraged.

Are existing programmes eligible?
Only if they are new developments or extensions that specifically benefit newcomers.

What is ineligible for funding?
Business-as-usual activities, political organisations, social clubs, debt repayment, or retrospective funding.

How is accountability ensured?
Applicants must maintain proper records, complete reporting, and comply with the grant terms and conditions.

Conclusion

The Hamilton City Council Welcoming Communities Fund empowers community organisations to create inclusive, connected, and vibrant environments for newcomers. By supporting new initiatives that promote participation, equity, and cultural respect, the fund strengthens Hamilton’s commitment to building a welcoming and resilient city for all residents.