The UCSA provides funding to affiliated clubs through the Student Services Levy to support club activities, development, and events. These funds are distributed through a range of grant options designed to meet different club needs.
Clubs can apply for the following types of grants:
- Major Club Grant
- Small Club Grant
- First Year Club Establishment Grant
All grant applications must be future-focused. This means funding cannot be applied for costs that have already been incurred.
Grant Limits
The maximum funding a club can receive each year depends on its membership size:
- 20 – 70 members: Up to $2,000 per year
- 70 – 150 members: Up to $4,000 per year
- 150+ members: Up to $6,000 per year
Please be aware that the following limits also apply:
- Clubs may receive up to four successful grant applications per year, or until they reach their annual funding cap, whichever occurs first.
- First year clubs are eligible for a maximum of $500 total, regardless of membership size.
The Club Grant Funding is a limited pool. Applications are assessed on a first-come, first-served basis until the funding pool is exhausted.
Major Clubs Grants
Major Club Grants support larger initiatives and strategic activities. These may include (but are not limited to):
- Large events and activities that contribute to a vibrant and inclusive campus (limited catering may be supported)
- Partial coverage of registration fees (not membership fees)
- Activities that develop skills for executives or members
- Campaigns focused on student issues or causes
- Health and safety equipment or training
- Supporting student attendance at conferences, competitions, or events (regional, national, or international, and not related to academic study)
Small Club Grants
Small Club Grants are quick, straightforward grants of up to $500, commonly used for:
- Banners, flags, and marketing materials
- Start-up costs for fundraising activities
- Small-scale events and activities
- Minor equipment that can be tracked in an asset register
First Year Clubs
First Year Club Establishment Grants are designed to help new clubs get started. These grants are limited to $500 and can be used for:
- Banners, flags, and marketing materials
- Start-up costs for fundraising activities
- Small on-campus events and activities
How to Apply
Before applying:
- Identify your club’s needs and confirm how much funding you are eligible for.
- Read the Clubs Grants Policy to ensure your application is eligible.
To submit an application:
- Log in to the UCSA website
- Access your club’s Admin Tools
- Select Grant Applications and complete the form
Make sure your application is complete, accurate, and clearly justified to avoid delays.
What You Need to Apply
To submit a grant application, you must provide:
- Quotes or invoices for the items or services requested (email screenshots are not accepted)
- A clear description of the item/event and its benefit to members (especially student members)
- Expected attendance (for event-related funding)
Remember: Applications must be submitted before any spending occurs.
Application Process
Once submitted with all required documentation:
- The Clubs Team will review your application to ensure it meets eligibility requirements
- You may be asked to provide additional information or make updates if needed
- Eligible applications are presented at the next available Grants Meeting
- Grants Meetings are typically held fortnightly during term time
- Applications are assessed by a subcommittee of the UCSA Executive
- You will be notified of the outcome following the meeting
If your grant is approved, your next step is to complete your grant reconcilliation this is needed to complete the process and to have the grant funds paid to the club.
Need Help?
If you have questions or need support with your application, contact clubs@ucsa.org.nz