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ECO Fund
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ECO Fund: Environment Community Otago Funding
Council has approved 2026 funding
Applications for ECO Fund will open mid-March 2026.
The ECO Fund supports our Otago community with their projects that protect, enhance or promote Otago's environment. We have different funding categories that target specific environmental issues.
For 2026, the total contestable environmental grant money will be $919,800.
| Funding category | Objectives | Total available (up to) | Max per project |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scaling up for biodiversity |
|
$306,600 | $50,000–$150,000 |
| General (on-ground and education) |
|
$306,600 | Up to $50,000 |
| Sustained rabbit management |
|
$102,200 | Up to $50,000 |
| Biodiversity enhancement on protected private land |
|
$102,200 | Up to $15,000 |
| Hill country erosion management |
|
$51,100 | Up to $15,000 |
| Weed removal and revegetation |
|
$51,100 | Up to $15,000 |
The ECO Fund supports both work on the ground and projects with an education or awareness-raising focus. Whether your project is large or small, we welcome your application.
Contact ECO Fund
Do you need more information about ECO fund, or have a question about how your project might get funding? We're here to help. Get in touch.
ECO Fund final report
Submit your final report for your completed ECO Fund project.
ECO Fund webinar
Learn how you could use an ECO Fund grant to help support local environmental projects.
ECO Fund applications will open March 2026
mid-March 2026: ECO Fund round opens
mid-April 2026: ECO Fund round closes
May–June 2026: Applications are reviewed
July 2026: Applicants are notified of our decision
Funding categories
Before applying to the ECO Fund, check which funding category to apply for.
Eligibility
Check that you are eligible for an ECO Fund grant.
Assessment criteria
Find out how your ECO Fund application will be assessed.
Terms & conditions
Understand the ECO Fund terms and conditions before you apply.
Tips for writing a good application
Find useful tips to help you write a good ECO Fund application.
Helpful resources for your ECO Fund application
Please go through this page to find useful links and documents that may help you complete a successful ECO Fund application.
ECO Fund application example
Review an example of a completed ECO fund application form to help you complete yours.
Non-ORC funding sources
See what other funding may be available for Otago environmental or community projects.
Funding for consents
Often community and catchment groups are involved in environmental enhancement projects such as wetland restorations, fencing of water ways, riparian planting or creating walkways. Parts of these projects may require resource consents from us.
Get in touch on 0800 474 082 or email ecofund@orc.govt.nz if you wish to discuss your project and whether it is eligible with staff, along with any help on an ECO Fund application.
