Need Help Making 1+1 = 6?

Community Networks • March 6, 2025

Hot Takes with Patrick!

This month, we’re focusing on financial health—cash flow, grants, audits, and long-term stability. But this isn’t just a checklist—it’s an opportunity to tap into the collective wisdom of our community!

Networking within this sector is powerful. When organisations connect, everyone benefits. Whether you’re a part of a large organisation with complex finances or a smaller group just finding your feet, every Member brings valuable insight. You might pick up a clever budgeting tip that’s been a game-changer for someone else or discover a fresh approach to securing grants.

At CNA we’re working to strengthen these connections even more throughout 2025. Collaboration creates space to openly share experiences. Our first webinar (keep an eye on your inboxes) will bring these ideas into the kōrero—because sometimes the best solution is just a conversation away.

By connecting and sharing we reinforce that sense of community and support. The path to financial stability can feel overwhelming but knowing others have faced similar hurdles—and overcome them—can be a huge confidence boost. Feedback from our last Hui said it best:

"Sometimes, it’s just good to know I’m not the only one in this situation."

Collaboration isn’t just about learning—it’s about thriving. When we share knowledge and support each other, we create an environment where everyone can succeed. So, don’t be shy! Start a conversation with a fellow Member—our Neighbourly Natters (more on this soon!) will help you connect with others in your area. Together, we can all become more resilient, financially stable, and prepared for the future.

We'd Love to Hear from You!

💡 What strategies have you found most effective for managing cash flow or securing grants in these challenging times? Share your tips with the community and let's learn from each other.

📉 Have you faced any specific financial challenges recently that you’d like to discuss? Your experiences could spark helpful conversations with others in similar situations.

💬 How can CNA support you further in strengthening your financial health? Let us know what resources or tools would be most beneficial to your organisation.

🤝 What’s your go-to method for collaborating with others in your community? Let’s talk about how we can increase our collective efforts and support one another.

🎓 Have you attended any training or networking events recently that made a difference? Share what you learned with the community—it could be the key to someone else’s success!

Ngā mihi,

Patrick Davies, Engagement Officer

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Hapori Aotearoa Conference Wrap-Up

By Community Networks • March 10, 2025

Last week Patrick represented CNA at the Hapori Aotearoa – Growing Communities Together in sunny Tauranga presented by Inspiring Communities and the Tauranga City Council. A two-day conference focused on providing practical resources amplifying community development. With each day having multiple concurrent workshops there were difficult (and esciting) choices to be made. The hottest topics were Social Return On Investments / Social Investment, Te Tiriti, and (no surprise) funding within the Sector. There were great speakers and a lot of table korero, spilling of tea, and sharing ideas and resources. Did you know there is a Regional Data Explorer on the Social Investment Agency website ? How might organisations use this to target their mahi and applications? “The Social Investment Agency’s Regional Data Explorer supports access to data for regional and sub-regional decision-making. It brings together 70 datasets or 'indicators' which can be filtered to meet a particular need." Another great workshop (Belinda Gorman ) looked into connecting with businesses to explore various ways of funding. Looking at alignment, how to approach and creating that relationship. One contribution we were able to make was a handy dandy doc on how to use the free version of ChatGPT to create a start – how to create a document that begins your journey on support, sponsorship and funding. Here it is – Using ChatGPT to Get $. And it was a great chance to catch up with Members – SociaLink (also a supporter of the conference); Volunteer Kapiti and Community Networking Trust. It was a time to catch up with friends from other organisations and to make new connections, both strengthening our reach around the Motu. Whilst conferences are expensive, attending can hit many birds with one stone and its important to get out of your own area, headspace to remind yourself that you are not alone in what’s going on; that there are people with ideas around you; and that (while it can be a draining experience) it is a fantastic way to recharge your spirit. We look forward to hosting our Members at our Members’ Only Hui on Friday, 7th November in Te Whanganui-a-Tara /Wgtn for exactly those reasons. Oh, did I mention it’s also our 50th Anniversary celebrations? Patrick Davies, Engagement Officer

End-of-Year Finance Checklist for Community Organisations in Aotearoa

By Community Networks • March 6, 2025

As we approach the end of the financial year, it’s a great time for community organisations and NFPs to check in on their finances.

Roundups with Ros - Financial Health for NFPs

By Community Networks • March 6, 2025

Kia ora! This month, I’m reflecting on financial health for For Purpose (Not For Profit) organisations—something we’re all thinking about as funding tightens and demands grow.