Community Climate Action Fund

Hutt City written in dark blue with a representation of the river between Hutt and City. In smaller dark blue text below is Te Awa Kairangi. The logo is presented on a mid-blue background with light blue topographical markings. banner image

The Community Climate Action Fund is open now!

Is your community group looking to make a real impact in reducing Te Awa Kairangi ki Tai / Lower Hutt’s carbon emissions? The Community Climate Action Fund is here to support projects that help our city to take meaningful steps towards a low-carbon future.

What is the Community Climate Action Fund?

This contestable fund supports community-led initiatives that reduce carbon emissions, and community engagement projects that incorporate sustainability practices, such as waste minimisation. All specifically projects must align with the Lower Hutt Climate Pathway.

Funding Round Two is now open!

  • Opens: 10 February 2025
  • Closes: 17 March 2025
  • Decisions made by: 24 April 2025

View the full funding calendar here.

What Can Be Funded?

The fund supports a range of initiatives, such as:

✅ Improving access to secure bike parking and charging

✅ Helping tamariki walk or scoot safely to school

✅ Community-led food and green waste reduction projects

✅ Nature-based climate solutions, like riparian and tree planting

See examples of previously funded projects here.

What Won’t Be Funded?

❌ Ongoing operational costs (e.g. salaries, rent, power not related to the project)

❌ Maintenance of buildings or purchase of land

❌ Projects requiring significant Council support

❌ Fundraising, legal costs, or prize money

See full list of ineligible expenses here.

Who Can Apply?

  • Community groups, charities, trusts, schools, and other legal entities based or operating in Te Awa Kairangi ki Tai / Lower Hutt
  • Individuals can apply for funding up to $10,000 subject to certain criteria
  • Applications above $10,000 require legal entity status
  • The project must align with Lower Hutt’s Climate Action Pathway

How to Apply

Applying is simple. Submit your application before 17 March 2025 to be considered for funding. Please ensure you read all information on the fund web page before applying to ensure you have the best chance of being approved!

Click here to read more and to APPLY NOW.

For businesses or projects focused on large-scale carbon reduction, there is a second fund available. Consider applying for the Low Carbon Acceleration Fund.

Together, we can build a more sustainable future for Te Awa Kairangi ki Tai / Lower Hutt!

More information

In the 2021/22 financial year, Lower Hutt emissions were reported to be 475,520 tCO2-e, with transport emissions making up half of this and stationary energy making up another 30%. While the Council is working hard on reducing its own emissions it also wants to support those across the city to make reductions.