What’s happening with funding support for arts organisations and groups?
Creative New Zealand has changed the way it provides funding to arts organisations and groups. The two investment programmes offering multiyear funding, Toi Tōtara Haemata and Toi Uru Kahikatea, are no longer being offered. The Arts Organisations and Groups Fund is the one fund that all organisations and groups are able to apply to for funding towards a programme of work. In 2026 new tiers will be added to this fund, offering higher amounts and continuing to offer multiyear options.
Why the change?
We have been making changes to the way we support the arts in Aotearoa New Zealand, with a focus on simpler processes and providing the kinds of support artists, practitioners and organisations want and need. Under the former investment model (Toi Tōtara Haemata and Toi Uru Kahikatea), only organisations who met Arts Council criteria were invited to apply to join those programmes. Under the Arts Organisations and Groups Fund, any arts organisation that meets the fund’s criteria may apply; this means more organisations are able to apply.
What are the next changes coming to this fund?
In 2025 we are designing the final stage of the fund. Currently, there are two tiers in the Arts Organisations and Groups Fund, offering up to $50,000 and $125,000 for one or two years. We plan to add new tiers that will provide higher levels of funding and multiyear terms. This means there will be new tiers available to apply for, to meet the needs of a range of arts organisations.
Will there be multiyear funding options under the Arts Organisations and Groups Fund?
Yes.
Have you added more money to the fund to support a greater number of applications?
No. We have the same amount of funding available for arts organisations and groups. The allocated budget for Toi Tōtara Haemata and Toi Uru Kahikatea will be used towards the Arts Organisations and Groups Fund and the Development Fund for Arts Organisations and Groups. There will be no reduction in our total investment in arts organisations and groups. We are still considering how we allocate the total spend between the Arts Organisations and Groups Fund and the Development Fund for Arts Organisations and Groups – so you may see a change in the budget for each fund. Budgets for both funds will be published when the funds open in May.
When will you announce the confirmed changes to the Arts Organisations and Groups Fund?
We expect to share the new tiers, their funding amounts and multiyear options in September 2025, following confirmation from the Arts Council of New Zealand Toi Aotearoa. Applications for the 2026 Arts Organisations and Groups Fund, with the new tiers will open in early 2026. This means arts organisations and groups will have three to four months to explore the new tiers with our advisers prior to making any applications.
How do the changes to the Arts Organisations and Groups Fund reflect your strategy?
Development of the Arts Organisations and Groups Fund aligns with Creative New Zealand’s vision to see the arts and ngā toi Māori flourishing, and the final fund details and its process will reflect this.
How will decisions be made?
We know clarity and transparency about decision making is essential. In this design phase we are thinking about how we can assess and make decisions about applications from different ‘types’ of arts organisations and groups (for example: artforms, different aspects of artistic practice, service delivery organisations, local, national and internationally focussed organisations). To do that, we will continue to use a combination of peer and internal assessment that draws upon strategic insight, an understanding of running an arts organisation, specific artform knowledge, and an understanding of engaging with communities .
Will we get feedback on applications regardless of the outcome?
We’re no longer offering individual feedback or written assessment commentary on applications that did not receive funding. We recommend talking with an adviser ahead of making an application, as this is the best time to receive constructive advice and gives your application the best chance. Visit our webpage Speak with an adviser to book a time
When will we be able to apply for the new tiers in 2026?
The fund will open in early 2026. If you’re thinking of applying, it’s a good idea to now think about the application criteria and understand the language Creative New Zealand uses. Visit our webpage for information to understand the language we use
Are there any changes to the Arts Organisations and Groups Fund in 2025?
No. The application process is the same as it was in 2024 and applicants may apply to either of the two tiers available. Changes to the fund, with the addition of the new tiers, will not come into effect until 2026. Visit the webpage Arts Organisations and Groups fund for information
How much will we be able to apply for?
The two tiers in the Arts Organisations and Groups Fund in 2025 allow for applications of up to $50,000 and up to $125,000 – one or two years can be applied for.
How will funding be paid out? Can I get a lump sum?
Multiyear grants will be disbursed over the duration of the grant. The total amount of your offer will not be provided in a lump sum upon acceptance of the grant, but through stages of payment.
When can we apply for Arts Organisations and Groups Fund 2025?
Applications open on 19 May and close 19 June 2025.
Who is eligible to apply for the Arts Organisations and Groups Fund?
New Zealand-based arts organisations and groups.
International arts organisations may apply only if the funding directly benefits New Zealand arts and artists.
What we mean by 'Arts organisations and groups'
Arts organisations and groups:
- deliver ongoing or regular artistic activity
- have a long-term purpose or vision for the arts
- continue operating even if people change
- have arts outcomes as their core activity
Examples of arts organisations and groups include:
- an art gallery
- a festival
- an orchestra
- an established publishing company
Arts organisations
Arts organisations are generally legal entities such as a company, trust, registered charity or incorporated society. They may or may not have professional staff or a formal strategic plan.
Arts groups
An arts group may or may not be a legal entity or have professional staff or a formal strategic plan. Groups can include entities such as collectives, artist run spaces, or groups that deliver an ongoing programme of artistic activity.
Marae, Iwi, and Hapū
Marae, Iwi, and Hapū can apply to arts organisations and groups funds and opportunities if their requested activities meet the purpose of the fund.
Applying for the Arts Organisations and Groups Fund in 2025
Who cannot apply
You cannot apply in 2025 if your arts organisation or group:
- received funding from this fund for activity in 2026
- is in the Toi Tōtara Haemata or Toi Uru Kahikatea programmes
What type of activity does this fund support?
This funding allows arts organisations and groups with a dynamic vision for the arts in Aotearoa to:
- deliver a programme of artistic work over one or two years
- make a positive impact in their communities.
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