Every year, we support community groups, rūnanga and organisations working to protect and enhance Waitaha Canterbury’s environment.

Community funding applications are closed

Applications for the 2026–27 funding round closed on 12 October 2026.

  • Funding decisions: expected in December 2026.
  • Funding distributed: December 2026–January 2027.

For questions, email communitygrants@ecan.govt.nz

1 September 2026

Applications opened

11.59pm, 12 October 2026

Applications closed

December 2026

Funding decisions expected

December 2026-January 2027

Funding distributed

Waitaha Action to Impact Fund (WAI Fund)

The WAI Fund supports community-led projects that align with the work of Environment Canterbury and build awareness, empower volunteers, and create positive action across Waitaha Canterbury.

Council allocated an extra $100,000 for 2026/27 (increasing the total amount from $300,000 to $400,000) specifically for on-the-ground biodiversity projects from across the region.

Learn more about the fund

Christchurch and Banks Peninsula Biodiversity Fund

This Christchurch and Banks Peninsula Biodiversity Fund supports community-led projects that protect and restore indigenous biodiversity across Christchurch and Banks Peninsula.

Learn more about the fund

CWMS Action Plan Fund

The CWMS Action Plan Fund supports practical projects that protect freshwater, restore habitats, and strengthen local water stewardship across Canterbury.

Learn more about the fund

Other funding types

Even if your project doesn’t fit neatly into one of the funds, there are still ways we may assist: 

  • Community event assistance:  If you’re planning a hui, workshop, field day, volunteer event, or conference, you can apply for financial support, in-kind support (equipment, venue, transport), or technical advice. Apply for funding. 
  • Additional funding and support options: If your project falls outside the criteria of our contestable funds, we can explore if it aligns with one of our priority programmes (e.g. native habitat restoration, mahinga kai, riparian planting). You may also request funding via our Annual Plan or Long-Term Plan processes.  If you would like more information on this, please get in touch with communitygrants@ecan.govt.nz.