The only reason your group would change sectors is if you change the main aim of your organisation in your Trust Deed or Constitution. If you are a first time applicant and are unsure which sector you best fall under please contact our office  for advice.

What are the closing dates for each sector?

Please Note: Due to the volume of applications, any application received
earlier than one month prior to its designated closing date will be returned for resubmission closer to the deadline

When will I find out whether my application was successful or not?
You will receive a letter from the Trust approximately 10 – 15 days following the donations meeting in your region for your sector. Unfortunately we are unable to advise you of the outcome over the phone.

Does my group have to have audited accounts?
Yes. If you are applying for over $5,000 you must submit a full set of financial statements audited by a Chartered Accountant. For requests under $5,000 we require you to submit (as a minimum requirement) a receipt and payments statement that has been verified by a Chartered Accountant.

What if my annual accounts aren’t ready in time for my closing date?
Ensure your application form is submitted by the closing date for your sector. You may submit draft accounts along with a letter from your auditor stating your accounts are currently being audited and give a date as to when they will be available. If documentation is not available on the closing date explain why and when accounts will be available.

Can I fax or email my application and supporting information?
No. We must have an original, signed application form plus copies of financial accounts, and other supporting documentation. We also do not accept photocopied (completed or uncompleted) versions of applications

What if I do not have all of my supporting documents available in time for my closing date?
Ensure you get your application form in by the closing date, enclose a letter stating what other information is still to come and send it as soon as possible. The main thing is to ensure we have your application form on time.

Who can apply for funding?
Incorporated societies or registered charitable trusts of community based organisations are eligible to apply for The Community Trust donations. Un-incorporated groups may apply for a maximum of $500 providing the application is for a community based project.

Organisations must benefit the people of Canterbury (North of the Rakaia), Kaikoura/Marlborough or Nelson.

This means that your group must have a Certificate of Incorporation obtained through the Ministry of Economic Development . You may also obtain charitable organisation status through the Inland Revenue Department . Schools, NZ Free Kindergarten Assn. members and Churches are not required to supply a copy of the letter granting charitable status or Certificates of Incorporation.

How often can I apply?
Organisations may only submit one application per year under their designated sector.

All sub groups within an organisation or association should consolidate their request into one application. While there may be several projects requiring funding, they can all be put on one application form listed in priority order (e.g. Project A, B, C etc).

How much can I apply for?
Applications should be limited to an amount which will ensure your project is completed; we would expect that you have made application to other funders.

What projects are normally funded by the trust?
The Trust will consider all reasonable requests which will directly benefit the applicant and the Community as a whole – including items of equipment, building restoration renovation, assistance with operating costs (including salaries), special initiatives or one off events.

What supporting information do I have to submit?
Organisations are required to submit:

• Latest financial statements;
• Certificate of Incorporation (if applicable);
• Current precoded deposit slip, or confirmation of account by your bank;
• Chairperson’s report;
• Copy of the Trust Deed or Constitution if you are applying for the first time;
• Minutes/Resolution from meeting confirming Board agrees with applying to The Canterbury Community Trust

There is a check-list on the application form to ensure you have everything you need. If the required items are not submitted processing your application may be delayed.

What if we don’t have a Chairperson’s Report?
The reason we ask for a Chairperson’s report is to get an overview of the organisation’s activities over the past year. A brief report from your organisation’s Co-ordinator or President giving background information or updates on activities will be sufficient. If we require further information we will contact you.

What about GST?
Our donations are paid from investment income or accumulated reserves and therefore are not subject to GST unlike grants which are derived from the profits of providing Goods & Services (Lottery or Councils). There is NO GST payable on our donations.

What kind of accountability does the Trust require?
All organisations may be subject to an accountability audit for the funds received. A request for expenditure receipts will be made. In addition, an accountability audit may happen by way of an on-site visit by a member of The Community Trust, or by a request for a written report.

Accountability forms are sent out approximately 12 months after you receive funds, to be completed with supporting invoices etc attached. They must be returned before another application can be approved or if the project has not been completed, a progress report is required.

Is there a Community Trust office in Nelson or Marlborough?
No. The Canterbury Community Trust has only one office based in Christchurch . All applications and correspondence must come to Christchurch.
Freephone 0508 266 878

Does your office have disabled access?
Yes, there is a chair lift available.

How can I contact Trustees?
All correspondence must come to our office to be distributed to Trustees.

Where can I find out more information on fundraising?
Go to our links  page for some useful links.

NOTE:
If you have not received a letter acknowledging the application within 10 working days of the close off, then please call the office - 0508 266 878.