Got an idea that would make a difference in your neighbourhood but just need a little boost to make it happen?

The Wiri Community Impact Fund is here to help.

This new initiative from Wiri Licensing Trust provides monthly donations of up to $500 to people and groups working to strengthen our local communities. Whether you’re running a grassroots fitness session in the park, hosting a parenting workshop, or helping volunteers get to where they need to be, the fund is designed to support everyday efforts that have real impact.

“This fund has been set up to support the real, everyday needs of people doing good in our community,” says Wiri Licensing Trust General Manager Kim Green. “We wanted to create something simple, flexible and easy to access.”

Unlike other funding streams, applicants don’t need to be an incorporated society or registered charity. You can be a small group of neighbours, a local initiative, or even an individual with a great idea.

And while the funding amount is modest, it’s aimed at delivering support when and where it matters most – especially when budgets are tight or timing is critical.

Some of the ways the fund can be used include:

• Koha or thank-you gifts for volunteers or guest speakers
• Petrol vouchers to help people get to events, training or appointments
• Sports gear such as bibs, balls or cones for community teams or boot camps
• Team or group prizegiving costs, including snacks, certificates or trophies – you might want to consider using the Woodside Function Room as a venue and we can work with you to keep costs down!
• Facilitator fees for local workshops, training or hui
• Professional development for staff or volunteers
• Printed flyers, posters or workbooks to help spread the word
• Healthy kai for hui, support groups or community gatherings
• Grassroots wellbeing or resilience projects – from mental health to parenting support

Applications are open now, and it only takes a few minutes to apply. The fund is made possible by the operational profit of the Trust’s hospitality venue, Woodside Restaurant and Bar – so every meal or drink enjoyed there is helping support more good in our community.

Kim says the Trust also welcomes the opportunity to help amplify your impact.

“If you’re happy for us to share your story, we’ll use our channels to help shine a light on your kaupapa – and you never know who else might come on board to support you.”

Find out more and apply for the Wiri Community Impact Fund here.