Applications open this week for even more funding for Opotiki's creative projects.

Do you have a creative project that could use some assistance? Individuals and groups who have eligible art projects are being encouraged to apply for a funding grant.

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 business innovation and communications adviser Tracey McNaughtan helps administer the fund. She explained that this funding round had more money available for the Opotiki community.

'Due to a change in the CCS funding formula, we now have up to $20,460 to allocate to projects in the Opotiki community. This is a great win for people involved in creative projects around the district so I encourage groups to take advantage of this and apply for funding to get their project off the ground.

'This fund exists because there is very clear research that getting involved in arts activities can have an inspiring effect on both our individual lives and on our community as a whole,” says Tracey.

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.

A previous CCS funding recipient was Sandra Innes-Smith who worked with a group that combined art with the horse show.

The theme was ‘State Highway 35' and each jump linked to the state highway in some way.

The theme and the quality of the jumps really added to the event and received rave reviews from everyone who attended.

Applications close on Friday October 4 for projects starting after Wednesday October 16. Application forms, criteria and guides are available at www.odc.govt.nz/ccs