Time to apply for COGS funding

Media Release 12 June 2009

Grass roots community and voluntary organisations have until 31 July 2009 to apply for a portion of the $14 million of Community Organisation Grant Scheme (COGS) funding available this year.

Funding is available for not-for-profit organisations that deliver community services or run community-based projects.

Applying for COGS funding is worthwhile for the majority of community groups. In 2008, COGS committees considered almost 4000 applications. Of those, 94 per cent received a grant.

The majority of grants are for $3000 or less and help to cover costs such as rent, travel, volunteer and administrative expenses.

Community groups can apply via the Grants Online website (www.cdgo.govt.nz) and take advantage of the enhanced online COGS application process.

The website offers step-by-step prompts and useful instructions, making the application process easy to access and understand.

Since its inception in 1986, COGS has allocated over $225 million of grants.

COGS grants are made by 37 volunteer local distribution committees which represent New Zealand’s diverse communities. The committees are supported by the Department of Internal Affairs.

ENDS

Media contact
Shawn Hollister, Senior Communications Advisor, Department of Internal Affairs, Local Government and Community Branch, phone (04) 495 7298 or email shawn.hollister@dia.govt.nz