How to Apply

The Application Process

The Otago Community Trust aims to support, encourage and enhance Otago through donations to the local community across the sectors of education, community welfare, sport and recreation, art and culture, heritage and the environment. Each application is judged on its own merits and its potential value to the community.

You can check if you are eligible to apply for a donation by taking the quick eligibility test.

More information on the types of projects, and examples of past projects, we support is available here.

If you are a regional sporting organisation or seeking more than $100,000 more information is available here.

You can download the application form here.

Organisations can only receive one donation during the Trust’s financial year which ends on 31 March. If you are unsuccessful with an application you may apply again during that year.

Applications will be accepted at any time, there is no closing dates unless you are seeking more than $100,000. The Trust does not formally write and tell you it has received your application but staff may contact you to discuss details of your application before it is presented to the Trustees. You will be notified of the Trustee’s decision in writing at least two months after your application was received. If successful, this will be a letter of offer which will outline any conditions we require you to fulfil before receiving the donation.

Donations are not usually paid out until the Trust is satisfied that the conditions in the letter of offer have been satisfactorily completed. The donation should be spent within 12 months for the purpose set out in the application, or as directed by the Trust, otherwise the donation becomes repayable. The Trust may consider any submission for an extension of time or for the funds to be spent in a manner different to that indicated in the original application.

Below is a list of factors the Trust takes into consideration when assessing applications:

• Purpose - the project clearly assists organisations carrying out charitable, cultural, philanthropic and recreational work which is of benefit to the people in Otago.
• Measurable benefit – there is a clear estimate and understanding of the number of people who will benefit from the project.
• Community Support – the extent to which the community supports the project, for example through volunteer hours, the number of people involved and their commitment.
• Skills and ability – the skills, knowledge and ability of coordinators and staff to successful complete the project.
• Financial – the financial situation of the group demonstrates they are well managed and stable.
• Fundraising to date – there has been a commitment from the applicant to raise money towards the project
• Other – any independent assessment or comment from relevant agencies, organisations or people.

Contact Us

Toll Free Phone: 0800 10 12 40
Phone: (03) 479 0994
Fax: (03) 477 1869
Email: info@oct.org.nz