We’re taking you behind the scenes, sharing how TSCF funding applications are reviewed, assessed and decided by the Distribution Committee. A lot of care and commitment goes into honouring the legacy and precise wishes of our donors, while responding to the evolving needs of our communities today. 

We sat down with Rachel Sanson, Trustee and Chair of the Distribution Committee, to find out more. 

Their work is quiet, considered and deeply important. And it is driven by one thing: a profound commitment to this region and the people who call it home. 

THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE DECISIONS 

The 2026 Distribution Committee brings together a diverse group of people with deep roots across Te Tauihu: 

• Rachel Sanson — Trustee & Chair of the Distribution Committee 
• Corey Hebbard — Trustee, Marlborough 
• Chelsea Routhan — TSCF CEO 
• Bill Huppler — External Advisor (NCC) 
• Blair Carpenter — External Advisor (DIA) 

With Marlborough grant support from:

• Jodie Griffiths - Community Advisor, Marlborough
• Zeke Hoskins - Environment Advisor, Marlborough

As a community foundation, our core strength lies in place-based philanthropy. The committee acts as the kaitiaki — the guardian — of the grant-making process, carefully reviewing all funding applications and ensuring that distributions are made fairly, strategically, and in alignment with both donor intentions and pressing community priorities. Each fund has specific donor-defined criteria that the committee carefully honours — ensuring that every act of generosity is respected and directed exactly where our donors intended. 

PLACE-BASED PHILANTHROPY 

As Rachel reflects: “We bridge the gap between generous giving and impactful local outcomes.” 

This is not a simple transactional exercise. Our funds are established to benefit the region for generations to come — forever. That long-term horizon requires a profound sense of responsibility — balancing the legacy and precise wishes of our donors with the evolving, immediate needs of our communities today. 

HOW THE PROCESS WORKS 

All applications are submitted through the TSCF online funding portal and reviewed by the Distribution Committee, which checks that each application aligns with donor wishes, responds to genuine community need, and demonstrates that the organisation has the capacity to deliver. The committee then makes recommendations to the TSCF Board, which makes the final funding decisions. 

Additional information may be requested during the review process, particularly from first-time applicants — so it pays to be thorough and responsive. 

The key dates for the 2026 round are: 

• 1–30 June — Grant round open 
• July — Applications reviewed by the Distribution Committee 
• August — Funding decisions finalised and communicated 
• End of August — TSCF aims to distribute grants 

WHAT WE LOOK FOR 

A strong application tells a clear story. The committee looks for three things: 

• The Why — the specific community need or opportunity being addressed. 
• The Impact — who will benefit and how success will be measured. 
• The Capability — a realistic budget and evidence that the organisation can deliver. 

Rachel’s advice for preparing a strong application: “Keep it clear and concise. Focus on your core ask and the tangible difference your project will make. Be realistic with your numbers — ensure your budget accurately reflects your needs. And if you are unsure about alignment or criteria, reach out to Chelsea and the team before submitting. We are here to help guide you.” 

LOCAL INSIGHT, COMMUNITY IMPACT 

Te Tauihu is a wonderfully diverse region — made up of unique communities across Nelson, Tasman, Golden Bay and Marlborough, each with its own social fabric, opportunities and challenges. A one-size-fits-all approach simply doesn’t work. 

Local insight is what makes the difference. Because the committee brings together trustees, staff and community representatives from across the region, they can connect the threads between regional strategy and grassroots realities — seeing where groups are collaborating, identifying vulnerabilities, and understanding where funding will have a genuine multiplier effect. 

“Ultimately, it ensures we are directing funds equitably,” Rachel says, “transforming our grant-making from a simple transactional exercise into a thoughtful investment in the long-term wellbeing of Te Tauihu.” 

To community groups considering applying this year, the message from the committee is clear: “Please apply. Community groups are the heartbeat of Te Tauihu, and we are here to support your vital work. Whether you are a long-established regional organisation or a small grassroots initiative, your efforts matter.”