At Ōtautahi Community we proactively seek out impact, identifying the local projects that are already strengthening our community from the ground up.
 

To ensure every dollar of our collective giving is utilised effectively and transparently, we guide our selection through a strict framework:
 

Proactive Selection

​

We do not accept unsolicited funding applications. Instead, we intentionally seek out high-impact work that often flies under the radar. We find the projects, connect directly with the leaders, and build meaningful partnerships based on a shared vision for our community.

​

Registered Donee Status

​

To guarantee total accountability and ensure our donors can claim tax credits, all supported organisations must be registered with Charities Services | Ngā Ratonga Whakahaere Kaupapa Atawhai and hold approved IRD Donee Status in New Zealand. This ensures your generosity is backed by the highest standards of financial transparency.

​

Responsive to Local Priorities

​

We back a diverse ecosystem of causes - from food security and youth resilience to environmental restoration and social cohesion. Ōtautahi Community is a platform designed to let the people of Christchurch support the initiatives they care about most, ensuring our collective funding always reflects the true, evolving needs of our city.

​

Funding Exclusions and Eligibility

​

To maintain absolute compliance, transparency, and public trust, we operate with clear boundaries regarding resource allocation. We do not fund individuals, nor do we support community projects where the primary purpose is the advancement of religion or spirituality.

Furthermore, we will not facilitate funding for any initiatives, groups, or activities deemed harmful, divisive, or counterproductive to the well-being of the wider Christchurch community. To ensure complete regulatory compliance, all participating organisations must maintain a compliant governance structure and be entirely clear of any active regulatory investigations or enforcement actions.

​

Flexible Operational Support

​

We understand that grassroots organisations require different types of resources to thrive. Depending on the nature of the partnership, we may fund specific, goal-oriented micro-projects, or provide essential operational funding to support the day-to-day running costs that keep a charity alive.

​

Leadership Oversight & Approval

​

Every single project featured on our platform must be vetted and approved by our Selection Committee - a dedicated group of local leaders who deeply understand the unique challenges and priorities of Ōtautahi.

​

Why We Work This Way

​

By removing the heavy administrative burden of traditional grant applications, we allow local leaders to stay entirely focused on their mahi while we focus on mobilising the resources they need. We aren't just funding charities; we are backing the people who make our city a better place to live.