The Western Bay of Plenty District Council is calling on people to apply for the annual Community Matching Fund.

The fund aims to support projects led by community groups and not-for-profit organisations working for the benefit of their communities. Applications open on April 17.

"Funding of $160,000 is available - $100,000 for recreation, social and cultural projects and $60,000 for environmental projects," says a Western Bay of Plenty District Council spokesperson.

"The only catch - groups will need to ‘match' the cash grant they're seeking – be it in volunteer hours, cash, or in-kind contributions."

Council's Community and Strategic Relationships Manager Jodie Rickard says the Community Matching Fund is a fantastic way for Council and community groups to work together to build strong and vibrant communities.

'The fund provides an avenue where community groups decide what their communities need, and we help with a financial boost to get their initiatives over the line.

'Everyone is feeling the pinch at the moment with inflation and cost of living, including not-for-profit groups, so we hope this funding can support them with achieving their goals,” says Jodie.

'Over the years the Community Matching Fund has helped some incredible projects come to life, so I encourage all Western Bay community groups to take the opportunity and apply.”

"In 2022 we funded 37 groups as part of the Community Matching Fund," says the Western Bay of Plenty District Council spokesperson.

"This included 26 projects in the general fund for recreational, social and cultural initiatives, and 11 projects which provide benefit to the natural environment in the environmental component of the fund.

Check out the successful groups from last year here.

If someone needs help applying, the Western Bay of Plenty District Council is hosting information sessions for community groups to provide advice and assistance on the application process.

• Ōmokoroa Library, Tuesday 16 May, 11.30am-1pm
• Pātuki Manawa (Katikati Library), Wednesday 17 May, 11.30am-1pm
• Waihī Beach Library, Thursday 18 May, 11.30am-1pm
• Te Puke Library, Friday 19 May, 11.30am-1pm

"Please email communitymatchingfund@westernbay.govt.nz to book your spot at one of these sessions, or for help with your application at any time."

Once open on Monday 17 April, groups can apply online through Council's website. For further information and eligibility criteria see www.westernbay.govt.nz/community-matching-fund.

Applications close Wednesday 31 May 2023.