Local agencies and organisations that support youth, are being called upon to apply for Bay of Plenty Education Trust financial support.

Applications for BOP Education Trust supplementary grants are open. Support will be either via sponsorship, or in partnership.

A pool of up to $35,000 is available to be shared. In 2023, $32,000 was divided between the successful applicants – The Western and Eastern BOP House of Science organisations, The Graeme Dingle Trust Project K Foundation, and Blue Light Ventures (Tauranga and Whakatane). Previous recipients include ICONZ and the Youth Encounter programme.

The supplementary grants are a relatively new initiative, born out of the Trust’s keenness to expand the way in which it helps young people in the coastal Bay of Plenty. 

Agencies and organisations operating from Katikati to Opotiki are invited to apply.

Applications should be lodged by email, by April 30, to [email protected]

Visit the Trust’s website (apply for a grant tab) for further information including criteria for funding.

BOP Education Trust chairman Nick Earl says the Trust is happy to invest in organisations that focus on worthwhile endeavours such as teaching youth life skills.

These include building self-esteem and resilience, encouraging teamwork, problem solving and sound decision making, and fostering positive attitudes.

The Trust has been active in BOP communities since 1985, and is best known for its annual scholarships for students beginning their tertiary studies.