If you have a biodiversity project underway or need help to restore a cyclone-damaged ecosystem, combined funding from Biodiversity Hawke’s Bay and Hawke’s Bay Regional Council (HBRC) just might be able to help.
Biodiversity Hawke’s Bay launched its Environmental Enhancement contestable fund this week with a funding pool totalling $50,000 thanks to a one-year pilot injection from HBRC.
The Fund is open for applications from 1 May to 14 June and supports individuals and groups that have projects advancing biodiversity in the region.
For the first time this year, financial support will be offered on two levels with the fund split into two categories; $1,000 – $3,000 to support smaller or early-stage projects and $3001- $15,000 for larger or more established projects.
Applications will be assessed on several criteria, with the ultimate focus on advancing one or both of Biodiversity Hawke’s Bay’s two key goals: biodiversity and ecosystem restoration, and growing biodiversity communities in Hawke’s Bay.
“We are aware that Hawke’s Bay is still very much in the recovery phase after Cyclone Gabrielle and will be for some time,” says Biodiversity Hawke’s Bay general manager Debbie Monahan.
“With other funding avenues currently closed for community groups, we want to ensure that we can provide support in this important recovery phase.”
Thomas Petrie, the HBRC Catchment Management Lead – Biodiversity, says the Council is excited to partner with Biodiversity Hawke’s Bay.
“Our region’s native species and ecosystems need a real boost and support to recover and thrive, given the devastating impacts of Cyclone Gabrielle. Supporting healthy functioning biodiversity and ecosystems is key for building climate resilience.”
The contestable fund historically opens in mid-February, however Biodiversity Hawke’s Bay chose to open the grant later, given the impact of the cyclone.
Biodiversity Hawke’s Bay’s community facilitator, Dr Belinda Sleight, is available in May to assist groups with their applications, whether that be project ideas, planning, writing, or technical advice. (Dr Sleight is not part of the committee assessing and allocating the grants).
Assistance with grant applications is one of the many ways Biodiversity Hawke’s Bay supports community groups to be more effective, productive, and ultimately achieve greater positive impact in Hawke’s Bay.
Applications close on 14 June and successful applicants have until 30 June 2024 to complete their projects.
To apply or learn more about biodiversity and the Environmental Enhancement Fund at www.biodiversityhb.org.
Biodiversity Hawke’s Bay is the regional community-led “for purpose” organisation established to work with, and on behalf of, the community to deliver on the objectives of the Hawke’s Bay Biodiversity Strategy 2015-2050 (Strategy). Last year the Biodiversity Hawke’s Bay Action Plan 2021 – 2025 was launched as the plan for the Hawke’s Bay community to collectively achieve the goals of the Strategy.
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