COGS - Community Organisation Grants Scheme

Simple application

Department of Internal Affairs

COGS is administered by the Department of Internal Affairs through local distribution committees. It is the most accessible grant for small community groups, designed for local, volunteer-based organisations.

national

Grant Range

$3,000

Decision Time

4-8 weeks

What kind of funding

one off

e.g. grant, loan, sponsorship

How to Apply

online form

What they fund

community activitieseventsequipmenttrainingoperational costssmall projects

Who can apply

incorporated societycharitable trustcommunity groupinformal groupmaraeschool pta

What they won't fund

IndividualsFundraisers, including professional or commercial fundraisersServices that duplicate existing services without justificationServices or activities that have already been delivered or have taken place prior to the closing dateDebt repayment or debt servicingReimbursement of past transactions or for completed workSocial functions, except if for cultural reasonsAlcohol and similar substancesRequests with evidence of a conflict of interestPublishing any material of a technical nature inconsistent with government policiesCapital items such as land, buildings, renovations, machinery, vehicles, or furnitureServices or activities that promote commercial, political, or religious activitiesActivities or projects specifically intended to generate a profitServices, activities, or programmes to be delivered overseas

What they care about

Committees prioritise community-based organisations delivering services to Māori women, Pacific communities, other ethnic communities, older people, rurally isolated people, people with disabilities, families, youth and children, and unemployed people.

Writing tips

Use terminology reflecting community engagement, such as 'encouraging participation in communities' and 'promoting community leadership'.

Common mistakes to avoid

Applications for services duplicating existing ones without justification, or for activities that have already taken place, are often rejected.

What makes a strong application

Grants are awarded to organisations showing how their projects contribute to community development and social equity.

Application structure

Budget

Include income and expenditure if the request is for projects costs.

Organisational Profile

Ensure the information in the grants management system is up to date, including bank account details, annual financial statements, GST information, legal entity status, and contact details.

Required documents

• Budget including income and expenditure
• Annual financial statements no older than 18 months
• GST information
• Legal entity status
• Contact details for the organisation

Visit website →Application worksheet (PDF) →Write an application for this funder