Economic Development Fund
South Wairarapa District Council is committed to driving strong economic growth outcomes that contribute to the district’s prosperity, alongside social, cultural and environmental benefits.
One way we can achieve this is by investing in local organisations and initiatives through grants that support groups operating within South Wairarapa and delivering economic sustainability to its people. In particular, the Council is interested in initiatives that grow the local economy by attracting money into the region, rather than re-circulating local money.
The fund was established by the Council late last year (2025) and had a pool of $180,000, which was granted this financial year. There is no guarantee this fund will be available next year. Applications were assessed on clear criteria by the Economic Growth Committee.
Fund allocation
Three signature events and a mix of grassroots and up-and-coming initiatives are to benefit from the Economic Development Fund. Featherston Booktown, New Zealand Festival of Christmas (based in Greytown) and Martinborough’s Pour and Explore will receive a funding boost following the Economic Growth Committee’s inaugural meeting in March 2026, when committee members agreed these events were vital in attracting visitors to South Wairarapa during the quieter winter months.
Read the full list of recipients on the Council’s media release outlining funds allocated.
Purpose
The purpose of this fund is to support these types of initiatives. This fund can also add strength to local economic development, enhance South Wairarapa as a destination and deliver measurable economic and community benefits.
It can be used to invest in projects that stimulate local business activity, increase visitation and visitor spend, create employment opportunities and celebrate our district’s unique natural, built and cultural heritage – contributing to a resilient, vibrant and sustainable local economy.
Committee
The Committee is made up of six councillors and includes the Mayor (ex-officio):
- Chris Archer – Chair
- Collier Isaacs – Deputy Chair
- Andrea Rutene
- Simone Baker
- Colin Olds
- Rupert Watson
- Mayor Fran Wilde (ex-officio)
Fund criteria
Support local economic development and enhance South Wairarapa as a destination
The main criterion is supporting local economic development and enhancing South Wairarapa as a destination.
Projects should support local economic development while enhancing South Wairarapa’s appeal as a place to live, work, visit and invest. This may include initiatives that:
- increase visitation, events activity or visitor spend in the district
- support local businesses, producers, creatives or hospitality operators
- strengthen place‑based identity, branding or destination experiences
- showcase South Wairarapa’s distinct heritage, environment and community assets
Initiatives and events that promote the region’s natural, built and cultural heritage
Although not the primary criterion, initiatives and events should also, if possible, celebrate, protect or promote the region’s natural, built and cultural heritage, including:
- showcasing local history, identity or cultural narratives
- celebrating Māori, iwi, hapū and community heritage
- activating heritage spaces, sites or landscapes through events or programmes
- strengthening community pride, place‑based identity and visitor or local engagement
Outcomes
For both criteria, initiatives should demonstrate one or more of the following impact outcomes:
- increased income or turnover for ratepayers, local businesses, producers or creatives
- growth in local supply chains through the use of local suppliers, services or contractors
- improved business capability, resilience or collaboration within the district
- job creation (paid or voluntary) sustained employment (including casual, seasonal or contract roles)
- increased and return visitation (day visitors and/or overnight stays) / extended visitor dwell time
- greater awareness of South Wairarapa’s distinct heritage, food, wine, arts and natural environment
- enhanced destination experiences through events, activations or place‑based initiatives
Measures
Suitable measures to support your intended outcomes may include:
- number of local businesses or enterprises participating or benefiting
- estimated local spend generated ($)
- number and type of jobs created or supported
- value of contracts or fees paid to local suppliers or workers
- number of visitors or event attendees (local vs out‑of‑district)
- estimated visitor spend ($)
- nights of accommodation generated
- event attendance, ticket sales or registrations
- digital reach, media coverage or promotional outcomes linked to the destination
Funding tiers
This fund was delivered through a single, open grant round. Funding recommendations were made at the discretion of the committee with final approval subject to a formal resolution made in quorum.
| Funding tier | Amount | Suitability |
| Seed funding | up to $2,000 | For individuals, small local business grants. |
| Grassroots events | up to $10,000 | For informal groups. |
| Significant events | up to $25,000 | Must be a legal entity or partnering with a legal entity that can hold funds on your behalf. |
| Impact Investment Fund | $25,000+ | Must meet additional reporting, annual accounts, supporting documentation etc. |
| Transformative funds | $49,000+ | May be considered at the EDFC’s discretion and delegated to the Council. |
The amounts displayed above are a baseline.
For more information on how decisions are made, the grants process as well as what we can and can’t fund, please refer to our Community Grants and Funding Framework and Policy.
Contact
For more information on the Economic Development Fund please contact lina.mcmanus@swdc.govt.nz
Key documents
Economic Development Fund Guide (PDF)
Economic Development Fund Application Form (PDF)