The Community Conservation Fund aims to support innovative initiatives that create long-term positive impact for people and the planet. Our focus is on creating an Aotearoa where we have thriving, healthy, biodiverse ecosystems and clean energy that supports climate resilience, and sustains future generations.
Who can apply?
WWF-New Zealand, in partnership with the Tindall Foundation, supports projects that empower local communities and young people to protect and restore Aotearoa's native habitats and species through hands-on conservation, education, and matauranga Māori.
The Fund is targeted at local community and educational conservation groups based and working in Aotearoa New Zealand. We do not fund individuals, for-profit organisations, Government authorities, Government agencies or overseas organisations.
What kind of projects are funded?
The Community Conservation Fund gives preference to projects that:
- Are community driven, involve local communities, bring people together for shared conservation initiatives
- Engage and educate children/young people through action based projects
- Encourage others to learn through experience and participation
- Have relationships with hapū /iwi and promote mātauranga Māori and indigenous knowledge
- Restore native habitats, especially those with threatened indigenous species
- Make meaningful contributions to improving connections to local environment
- Promote others to gain skills and are encouraged and/or supported to take future action for the environment as a result of participating
For more information on eligibility and funding priorities please download and read the application guidelines (below).
How much can I apply for?
A maximum of NZ$15,000, for a funding period of one year. Previous recipients may re-apply to consecutive funding rounds up to three years, or in some circumstances five years, but repeat funding for recipients is not guaranteed and WWF should not be considered an on-going source of funding. New applications will need to be made for each successive year.
How to apply
The fund is open for applications once a year in August. The 2025 round is now closed. To check if you are eligible and meet the funding priorities please read the application guidelines (below). Details of previously funded projects can be found here.
For more information contact:
WWF-New Zealand Grants Administrator,
Email: [email protected]
For updates on the Fund and future rounds please subscribe to the WWF-New Zealand newsletter (link in Footer).
