On a recent September evening, 32 community groups attended a Grants Function, the first held by TECT since 2021. This function celebrated 32 of the community organisations who have received TECT funding since April. This included 16 new applicants receiving funding from TECT for the first time. As TECT strives to make a difference for Tauranga and Western Bay of Plenty communities, these grants will positively impact the lives of current and future generations.
Of the 78 grants approved thus far, the smallest grant of $2,000 was awarded to Multiples Bay of Plenty, who provide support and services throughout the region to families with twins, triplets, or higher multiples; and the largest grant of $21 million is for the museum and exhibition centre as part of Te Manawataki O Te Papa – The Heartbeat of Tauranga project.
Overall, the grants totalled $25,180,521 and cover three of TECT’s five strategic focus areas – Community Wellbeing & Vibrancy, Natural Environment, and Built Environment,
TECT Deputy Chairperson Mark Arundel opened the function after guests were treated to a performance by Sophie-Maude Turner, an Adastra Foundation Scholarship recipient whom TECT co-funds, and a recipient of a Mini Arts Grant, a collaborative fund between TECT and Creative Bay of Plenty to support smaller community art & culture activations.
Mark says, “Grant function celebrations are extremely important to TECT as we get to meet with community groups who have received funding and hear from them individually about their progress or the significance of the funding for their work.”
“It is also a great opportunity for community groups to network with one another, with many often not getting the opportunity to cross paths otherwise,” says Mark. “We enjoy being able to showcase each grant, its purpose and how each community group will assist in making a thriving, caring and connected community.”
The function was held at The Kollective, New Zealand’s largest co-working space dedicated to social impact, founded by TECT five years ago.
Although unable to attend the celebration, David Vernon, from Greerton Bible Church said, “We really appreciate the support TECT have given us both this year and in previous years. The funding we received enables us to provide well-equipped facility for local community groups to use to deliver their important services. The grants function is a great reminder of the quality and breadth of local community groups. It is also an acknowledgement of TECT for their work in supporting our community.”
As a community-focused trust, TECT supports local initiatives, facilities and events that bring vibrancy, connectedness, growth, and economic benefits to the region. TECT has funding available for community organisations, and information about these funds are available on their website.
