Auckland Council is investing $286,106 into arts and culture across the region this financial year, supporting 14 creative projects through the latest round of Regional Arts and Culture grants.
Approved by the Community Committee, grants ranging from $5,000 to $50,000 will go to both emerging and established groups to deliver a diverse range of dance, performance, poetry, music and storytelling activities across the Auckland region.
Community Committee chair, Councillor Julie Fairey says a continued demand for arts and culture funding reflects a vibrant and flourishing sector in Tāmaki Makaurau.
“This grant fund is very popular, showing the strong interest from Aucklanders in arts and culture, and the high calibre of expertise and creativity across our region,” says Cr Fairey.
“Because funds are limited, we can’t invest in every project that applies, so we have prioritised those that will attract an audience from across Tāmaki Makaurau and build the sustainability of our vitally important creative sector.”
Council General Manager of Community Wellbeing, Kenneth Aiolupotea, says each successful recipient has outlined how their project will meet specific criteria like reaching new audiences and removing barriers to access arts and culture.
“Community-based groups are best-placed to design and deliver projects that really appeal to their audiences,” says Mr Aiolupotea.
“With the support of volunteers and community resources, they’re able to achieve strong social and cultural outcomes that may not otherwise be possible.”
The latest funding brings the council’s total investment through the Regional Arts and Culture grants programme to $1,358,506 this financial year, supporting the goals of Toi Whītiki – Auckland’s Arts and Culture Strategic Action Plan.
The next funding round opens for applications on 1 May and closes on 12 July. For more information, visit How the regional arts and culture grants programme works.
