The Government's Social Housing Unit says it's received more than 20 applications for its Maori and Rural Funds, which set aside money to increase the number of social and affordable homes.
Of the $37.35 million available to all types of housing providers, $3 million is guaranteed for Maori.
The unit will now contract a specialist company to evaluate the applications but will have the final say on who will receive funding.
Applicants should know by the end of January 2012 if they've been successful.