Spectrum Foundation provides funding to support projects and organisations that help disabled people and their whānau thrive. We offer a mix of open and closed funding throughout the year:

Open funding for Small Grants (up to $10,000):

• For smaller, community-based projects/initiatives with a local focus.
• Shorter application process and lighter reporting requirements.
• Applications can be made throughout the year with a deadline usually in July.
• Funds are usually distributed in October.

Open funding for Large Grants ($10,001–$50,000):

• For projects/initiatives that address significant needs or have a wider impact.
• More detailed application process with additional requirements.
• Applications can be made throughout the year with a deadline usually in July.
• Funds are usually distributed in October

Closed funding (invitation only):

• For projects/initiatives that tackle large-scale issues or help new organisations get started.
• This funding is by invitation only and focuses on long-term change.
• Funds are usually distributed in April

Please note: Spectrum Foundation does not fund applications for individuals.

What we look for

Initiatives are expected to:

• Align with Enabling Good Lives principles (choice, control, self-determination)
• To involve people with lived experience of disability in decision-making
• Show understanding and respect for Te Tiriti o Waitangi

Other areas of consideration

• Funding is usually directed to communities we have existing knowledge of through Spectrum Group. This means we are interested in initiatives based in the North Island with local or national reach.
• We generally won’t fund initiatives that are already Government-funded, or that closely duplicate disability support services. This includes:
  • After school and overnight care
  • School holiday programmes
  • Independent Living Support
  • In-home support
  • Supported accommodation
• Spectrum Foundation supports housing through investment in Spectrum Group and our community housing provider, Homes of Choice. Further capital investment into social housing is therefore unlikely.

Exclusions

Please note that Spectrum Foundation will not generally fund organisations or providers:

• For political purposes.
• To build endowments (i.e. to build capital bases).
• For the repayment of debt or retrospective costs.
• To solely support the spiritual activities of religious organisations. This includes facilities and halls on church/mosques/temple grounds, etc.
• That could reasonably be expected to be funded by local or central government such as core health, social housing and education service delivery.
• To only create profit.
• Spectrum Foundation prefers to fund registered charities. Please contact the team if you would like to apply for funding but are not a registered charity.

We focus our funding on four areas that support a good life: education, health and wellbeing, employment and housing. We’re looking for opportunities that remove barriers, strengthen connection, and create real opportunity for disabled people and their whānau.

Education (early interventions for children and their whanau)

• Inclusive participation and support during key transitions
• Guidance for whānau to navigate the education system
• Assessment and diagnostic pathways for neurodivergent children
• Inclusive support networks, activities, and events

Health and wellbeing (enhancing the health and holistic wellbeing of disabled people)

• Support to navigate disability and health systems
• Therapeutic services (e.g. assessments, therapy)
• Wellbeing through movement, sport, outdoor play, arts, dance, and music
• Social and cultural connection (including Māori, Pasifika, and other communities)
• Education that supports safe, healthy relationships
• Advocacy that strengthens disabled voices and rights

Employment (creating pathways into the workforce, development, leadership and secure employment)

• Transition-to-work pathways (including from school)
• Pre-employment and in-work support
• Mentoring, training, and entrepreneurship
• Initiatives that grow disabled leadership

Housing (appropriate, accessible, affordable and stable housing for disabled people and their whanau)

• Tailored, safe, accessible, and affordable living options*
• Support to access stable housing

*Spectrum Foundation supports accessible housing primarily through Homes of Choice, Spectrum Group’s community housing provider.

Our 2026 funding rounds have now closed. You’re welcome to contact us at any time during the year to discuss your project idea or ask questions.

Easy Read is an alternative format. It is used to make written information easier to understand for people who may find standard written information difficult to understand.

Please use this Easy Read form if you need it to apply for funding from Spectrum Foundation.

You can download the Easy Read form below.

Please fill it in and send it back to our team. We will add it to the funding portal for you.

Spectrum Foundation will create more alternative formats over time.