ENM administers the Environmental Initiatives Fund to support Palmerston North-based community initiatives that improve environmental outcomes. This funding has been made possible by a PNCC Strategic Priority Grant.

Small Grants (up to $1000) and Large Grants (between $1,000 and $12,000) are available for projects that align with PNCC’s Eco-City Strategy priorities and any identified priorities of the network.  Small Grants are open year-round for applications, and Large Grants have one funding round a year, next opening in February 2023.

2021 was ENM’s first year overseeing the fund which awarded grants totalling $50,000 to nine groups with unique and diverse ideas and projects. For the 2021/22 round the hope is to support even more initiatives to benefit the environment and the Palmerston North community.  There is currently $66,000 available for distribution this round.

In 2021's grant round, Square Edge Arts Centre  were awarded funding to transform their courtyard into a community garden supplying fresh fruit, vegetables and materials for making home remedies and artwork. Artistic director Dr Karen Seccombe is thrilled with what the grant has helped them achieve. ‘From a dismal dumping ground to a beautiful space for the community to spend time in- our Square Edge Courtyard continues to transform, and people are actually using it! We are so grateful for EIF's support to this developmental project. come down, bring your lunch and enjoy our restful new green space.' 

Growing Gardens and Communities received funding to help people to start fruit and vegetable gardens setting up eight gardens in total with their grant. Volunteer Beth Lew notes ‘The assistance gained from the … grant has been invaluable in getting this project going. Many people are hesitant to spend the extra money needed to have a garden, especially when they do not have previous experience gardening. We hope to provide the impetus to get them learning about gardening and providing their families with fresh healthy vegetables. This is a first step into sustainable living, and we are pleased to be able to assist our community in this way.’

You are encouraged to find out more about the funding by going to Environmental Initiatives Fund  applications page. where you can access guidelines, FAQ’s and information about previous grants also sign up to be notified about the Large Grants Fund when it opens. You may even choose to apply now for a Small Grant.

ENM is available now to answer questions from potential applicants; contact Kerry Jaques on 06 355 0126 or email admin@ enm.org.nz.