Schools and early learning centres across the Bay of Plenty are being encouraged to apply for funding to support sustainability and climate resilience projects, with applications now open for the School Sustainability and Resilience Fund.
The fund, run by Bay of Plenty Regional Council, opened on January 19 and offers grants to schools, kura kaupapa Māori, kōhanga reo, early childhood centres and tertiary providers to help deliver environmentally focused projects in their communities.
Grants of up to $5000 (excluding GST) are available for sustainability projects, while projects focused on climate change or natural hazard resilience can apply for up to $10,000.
Understand
Projects can range from edible gardens, composting systems and rainwater tanks to wetland restoration, native planting, environmental monitoring, bicycle racks and climate education programmes.
Regional council staff said the fund aims to help young people understand climate change and environmental challenges, while giving them practical ways to make a difference.
In 2025 St Mary's Catholic School installed a new greenhouse to support their flourishing Food-to-Table programme. Photo / Supplied
“All eligible projects go through a public voting process, meaning the community helps decide which projects receive funding,” a council spokesperson said.
“Projects that miss out in the public vote still have a second chance, with funding allocated by a panel of rangatahi from across the Bay of Plenty.”
Applications are open to education providers throughout the region and must contribute to at least one goal, such as improving environmental sustainability, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, raising awareness of climate change or strengthening resilience to natural hazards.
Start planning
Applications close Sunday, March 8, but schools are encouraged to start planning early, including getting quotes and developing project budgets. External labour costs can make up no more than 30% of a project’s total budget.
“The School Sustainability and Resilience Fund supports the regional council’s wider goals of protecting the environment, supporting freshwater health and building safe, resilient communities,” a council spokesperson said.
Applications must be submitted online via the Bay of Plenty Regional Council’s Participate platform. Schools needing advice or support with their application can contact the council’s sustainability team before the closing date.
More information, including guidelines and examples of previously funded projects, is available on the council’s website at www.boprc.govt.nz.