
Environment Canterbury - Waitaha Action to Impact Fund (WAI Fund)
Simple applicationEnvironment Canterbury
Supports community-led projects across Waitaha Canterbury that empower people to take action, build capacity, and deliver tangible environmental outcomes.
Grant Range
$5,000-$30,000
What they fund
Who can apply
What they won't fund
What they care about
The Waitaha Action to Impact Fund supports projects that align with Environment Canterbury's strategic priorities, including decisive action for healthy freshwater, land, coastal ecosystems, and air quality, fostering relationships for regional leadership, sustainable and healthy living and working environments, and helping communities respond to and adapt to climate change.
Writing tips
Applications should clearly demonstrate alignment with Environment Canterbury's strategic directions and priorities, emphasizing the significance of the problem, expected impact, value for money, project management, and community engagement.
Common mistakes to avoid
Applications that do not clearly outline the project's alignment with Environment Canterbury's strategic priorities or fail to provide sufficient detail on project management and community engagement are less likely to succeed.
What makes a strong application
Projects that deliver tangible environmental outcomes, build community capacity, and involve significant community engagement are more likely to receive funding.
Application structure
Significance of the Problem or Opportunity
Explain the issue the project will address and why it matters.
Expected Impact of the Project
Describe the short, medium, and long-term impacts of the project.
Value for Money
Ensure the project budget is reasonable and demonstrates potential for leveraging additional funding.
Project Management, Including Leadership and Financial Oversight
Provide details on project delivery, budget, and health and safety considerations.
Community Engagement
Outline how the community will be involved in the project.