Tauranga City Council's Community Development Match Fund is now open for applications for medium grants of up to $10,000.

The Match Fund supports local community groups to deliver new initiatives that foster strong, innovative and vibrant communities.

To be eligible for funding, projects need to provide a public benefit, be free and open to members of the public, and be initiated, planned and implemented by members of the community, says a statement from Taurang City Council.

"Community groups must match the funding they seek from council, which can be ‘matched' through cash donations, materials/supplies, volunteer labour or professional services.

"Grants through the Community Development Match Fund help connect communities, improve the quality of life, empower and build community capacity, and revitalise spaces within local neighbourhoods."

Applications for medium grants close at 5pm on 9 November 2018.

Small grants, of up to $1000, can be applied for at any time throughout the year.

For full eligibility criteria or to apply online, visit our website: www.tauranga.govt.nz/matchfund