Tupulaki Community Grants 

Overview

The Tupulaki Community Grants program (formerly the Direct Aid Program) a competitive, flexible small grants program funded by the Australian Government and managed by the Australian High Commission in Tonga.The program invites proposals up to $50,000 pa’anga that demonstrate a strong development focus and that complement the broader Tonga Australia relationship.

The Tupulaki Community Grants program (the program) is available on a not-for-profit basis to community groups, NGOs and other entities conducting development activities in Tonga. International organisations and National Government Ministries are not eligible to apply. If a community organisation has received Direct Aid Program funding before and did not successfully complete the activity, they cannot re-apply.

Activities that are aimed at achieving practical and tangible development outcomes are eligible to apply for the program. We favorably consider projects:

• that have a focus on gender equality, disability equity, environment and climate change, or income generation and livelihoods;
• that take place on the outer islands of Tonga;
• where applicants and communities make a significant co-contribution to the project;
• that have a clear plan for ongoing maintenance costs;
• that have a letter of support from relevant government representatives or community leader.

Key dates for  2026

Round 1: Opens 9 February 2026 and closes 28 February 2026

Round 2:  Opens 17 August 2026 and closes 7 September 2026

How to apply

Go to dap.smartygrants.com.au/TupulakiCommunityGrants  -. After you have made an account, select the Tupulaki Grants.  Answer each application question according to the instructions provided.  Submit your application before applications close.

Click on the Tupulaki Grant Guidelines for more information.