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ECO Fund
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ECO Fund: Environment Community Otago Funding
Council has approved 2026 funding
Applications for ECO Fund will open mid-March 2026.
The ECO Fund supports our Otago community with their projects that protect, enhance or promote Otago's environment. We have different funding categories that target specific environmental issues.
For 2026, the total contestable environmental grant money will be $919,800.
| Funding category | Objectives | Total available (up to) | Max per project |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scaling up for biodiversity |
|
$306,600 | $50,000–$150,000 |
| General (on-ground and education) |
|
$306,600 | Up to $50,000 |
| Sustained rabbit management |
|
$102,200 | Up to $50,000 |
| Biodiversity enhancement on protected private land |
|
$102,200 | Up to $15,000 |
| Hill country erosion management |
|
$51,100 | Up to $15,000 |
| Weed removal and revegetation |
|
$51,100 | Up to $15,000 |
The ECO Fund supports both work on the ground and projects with an education or awareness-raising focus. Whether your project is large or small, we welcome your application.
ECO Fund applications will open March 2026
mid-March 2026: ECO Fund round opens
mid-April 2026: ECO Fund round closes
May–June 2026: Applications are reviewed
July 2026: Applicants are notified of our decision
Before applying
Before applying, contact ORC to discuss your project, check your eligibility using the form below, and explore the resources to help you prepare a strong ECO Fund application.
Ready to apply
If you’re ready to apply — just double-check your eligibility, review the assessment criteria, confirm you can meet the terms and conditions, and then click Apply to get started.
After applying
When you're hear about the success of your application, feedback, next steps, and resources to keep your project moving.
Get in touch on 0800 474 082 or email ecofund@orc.govt.nz if you wish to discuss your project and whether it is eligible with staff, along with any help on an ECO Fund application.
Get in touch on 0800 474 082 or email ecofund@orc.govt.nz if you wish to discuss your project and whether it is eligible with staff, along with any help on an ECO Fund application.
