We are thrilled to announce that the Top of the South Community Foundation’s September 2025 Grant Round is now open for applications! This year, we're offering targeted grant rounds to better tailor support to regional needs – and now, it’s your chance to apply.

Funds Open for Applications

The following funds are available in this round:

• Nelson Tasman Environment Fund
  Projects that help our native species thrive in Nelson and Tasman.
  $1,000–$5,000 per grant, total available $22,500
• Golden Bay Fund
  Projects that support the community and natural environment in Golden Bay.
  $1,000–$3,000 per grant, total available $10,000
• General Fund
  Projects that support charitable purposes across Te Tauihu, with a focus on helping those who need a hand up.
  $1,000–$3,000 per grant, total available $11,500
• Youth Development Fund
  Initiatives in the Tasman region supporting young people to thrive.
  $1,000–$2,000 per grant, total available $4,000
• Employment Support Marlborough
  Projects that help people in Marlborough on their journey into meaningful employment.
  $2,000–$5,000 per grant, total available $24,000
• Marlborough Environment Fund
  Projects that support Marlborough’s natural environments, with priority for public land, under-represented native ecosystems, and strong volunteer involvement.
  $2,000–$10,000 per grant (generally $5,000–$7,000), total available $30,000

Key Information

• Accountability reports: Due 12 months from the offer letter date
• Applications open: 1 September 2025
• Applications close: 30 September 2025
• Review: October – assessed by our Distribution Committee
• Decisions announced: October/November 2025
• Grants distributed: By end of November 2025

Who can apply?

• We welcome applications from both new and ongoing projects, provided you can demonstrate capability to deliver outcomes.
• Organisations must be a charitable trust, or have a charitable trust act as a fundholder (except where noted for Marlborough funds).
• You can apply for one fund only (unless you are a fundholder applying on behalf of others).
• Funding is for one year only (not multi-year).
• Operational costs can be included as part of a wider project but not exclusively.
• Organisations must be based in or serving Te Tauihu.

Ready to Apply?

Visit our Grant Process page for:

• Criteria – full details for each fund
• Tips for Applicants – guidance on how to prepare a strong application
• Application form – submit your proposal before 30 September 2025

We look forward to receiving applications from across Marlborough, Nelson, Tasman, and Golden Bay. Together, through the generosity of our donors and the hard work of local organisations, we can make a lasting difference for our communities and environment.

Apply today and help strengthen the Top of the South.