Funding available for Youth Development in New Zealand

Deadline: 31-Mar-2026

Youthtown Trust offers grants to support programmes and initiatives that empower young people across New Zealand. Funding focuses on youth development through sports, outdoor activities, arts, cultural programmes, and community-based services. Eligible not-for-profit groups can apply to create lasting impacts that inspire, educate, and support youth.

About Youthtown Trust

Youthtown Trust is dedicated to developing and empowering young people by funding initiatives that foster growth, learning, and positive engagement. The Trust supports programmes and facilities that:

• Operate and develop Youthtown programmes and facilities

• Encourage and expand amateur youth sport within established sporting organisations

• Promote youth outdoors and cultural activities, including art, music, and drama

• Provide financial support to community-based organisations that benefit groups of youth

• Serve charitable or non-commercial purposes benefiting all or part of the community

Youthtown Trust receives funding through a network of New Zealand gaming venues, ensuring responsible Class 4 gaming operations that enable Youthtown’s own services and other youth initiatives to thrive annually.

Why It Matters

The Trust’s grants aim to:

• Help young people raise their aspirations

• Enable youth to realise their potential

• Ensure achievements are recognised and celebrated

• Support initiatives that make a significant, lasting contribution to communities

Funded programmes enhance opportunities for youth to learn, explore, and connect, contributing to long-term personal and social development.

Eligible Programmes

Funding can support:

• After-school and holiday activities

• Outdoor education and adventure programmes

• Career exploration and mentorship programmes

• Cultural programmes including art, music, and drama

• Youth spaces where young people can connect, relax, and grow

Who is Eligible?

Eligible organisations include:

• Not-for-profit groups incorporated as charitable organisations or associations promoting charitable purposes

• Regional and community groups located in areas where funds are generated

• Amateur sports organisations affiliated with recognised national bodies

• National organisations demonstrating clear community benefits

Ineligible activities and organisations:

• Retrospective expenditures

• Projects with commercial benefits to venues

• Private or political initiatives

• Projects already funded by other sources

• Multi-year grants or fundraising ventures

• Professional or non-affiliated sports clubs

• Affiliation fees, memberships, prizes, food or catering

• Projects related to the horse-racing industry

How to Apply

1. Confirm eligibility: Ensure your organisation meets Youthtown Trust criteria

2. Prepare application: Clearly explain how your programme benefits young people and your community

3. Submit application: Follow official Youthtown Trust application procedures

4. Demonstrate impact: Include expected outcomes, community benefits, and measurable objectives

5. Await decision: Successful applicants will be notified with funding details

Tips for Applicants

• Emphasise youth outcomes and community impact

• Ensure programmes are non-commercial and charitable

• Highlight innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability

• Avoid applying for ineligible purposes or multi-year funding

• Provide clear, concise applications to strengthen consideration

FAQs – Youthtown Trust Grants

1. What types of programmes are funded?
Funding supports youth development, including sports, cultural activities, outdoor education, mentorship, and youth spaces.

2. Who can apply?
Not-for-profit organisations, regional/community groups, amateur sports clubs affiliated with national bodies, and national organisations with clear community benefits.

3. Are multi-year grants eligible?
No, Youthtown Trust does not fund multi-year programmes.

4. Can commercial or private projects be funded?
No, only charitable, community-focused, or non-commercial initiatives are eligible.

5. Can retrospective costs be funded?
No, expenses already incurred before grant approval are ineligible.

6. What geographical areas are eligible?
Funding is available for programmes in areas where Youthtown gaming proceeds are generated.

7. How are grants evaluated?
Applications are assessed on youth impact, community benefit, sustainability, and alignment with Trust priorities.

Conclusion

Youthtown Trust grants provide vital support for initiatives that empower young people, develop skills, and strengthen communities. By funding programmes in sports, arts, outdoor activities, and community-based services, the Trust helps youth across New Zealand realise their potential, raise aspirations, and achieve meaningful outcomes. Eligible organisations are encouraged to apply to make a lasting positive impact on the lives of young people.

For more information, visit Youthtown Trust.