Kate Clark Community Sport Advisor WBOP Sport Bay Of Plenty

Running a successful sports club takes a lot of enthusiasm, dedication, hard work and the ability for a group of volunteer committee members to look ahead and plan for a sustainable future.

Part of this planning involves finding the right funding opportunity for your club to continue to develop and sustain its growth.

Different clubs have different goals. It can be a challenge to find the right funder, who will want to support your project.

Tauranga Energy Consumer Trust operations and grants manager Paula Hudson deals with the community funding schemes TECT has in place to assist sports clubs and other local organisations.

She outlines the process below.

'We really like to meet you before we receive your application, so we can learn more about you and your club, what it is you are trying to achieve – and how your projects fits in with TECT and our funding criteria.

'We can help guide you as to which fund you should be applying for and clarify the application process.

'For those clubs requesting $20,000 or more of TECT funding, we will also pre-assess the project and conduct a site visit.”

Paula recommends applications be made at least three months before clubs will require the funds, since it takes at least sic-eight weeks for applications to be processed after the deadline and for the Board of Trustees to make a decision.

Applications can be made any time throughout the year, although clubs may only be granted funds once within a 12-month period.

Submitting your application early can also give clubs time to provide any further information or missing documentation that's required to be successful.

Clubs must also have a TrustPower energy account in their name and be situated in Tauranga City or Western Bay of Plenty areas.

Top tips

1. Talk to the funders and build a positive working relationship with them. They are always happy to answer your questions and ensure you submit a good application.

2. Develop a funding calendar, note when the closing dates are and plan in advance.

3. Have all your paperwork in order, especially your most recent set of accounts which should be independently audited or reviewed as per your club constitution.

4. Read everything on the website and make sure the fund is an appropriate one for your requirements – check the funding criteria.

5. List any other funds you have secured or you have applied for. Funders like to see how your club plans to be self-sustainable in the future.

For further information, visit the TECT website or call Paula Hudson on 07 578 5094.

There are a number of other funding opportunities available for sports clubs. Visit http://www.sportbop.co.nz/scholarship_and_funding or contact Kate Clark for assistance with developing a funding plan.