Deadline: 03-Jun-2026
The Asia New Zealand Foundation Te Whītau Tūhono is offering an India-focused round of the Sports Leaders Fund to support New Zealand sports leaders travelling to India. The programme provides up to NZD $7,000 to strengthen sporting collaboration, professional networks, and cultural understanding between New Zealand and India.
About the Fund
The programme supports:
- Sports leadership exchange
- International sporting collaboration
- Professional relationship building
- Cultural understanding
- Sports sector networking between New Zealand and India
The initiative aims to help senior sports professionals better understand India’s sporting landscape and create long-term partnerships.
Funding Details
- Maximum Funding: Up to NZD $7,000
- Travel Completion Deadline: 31 December 2026
Funding can cover:
- Economy-class flights
- Accommodation
- Local transportation
- In-country travel
- Seminar and conference attendance costs
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must:
- Be New Zealand citizens or permanent residents
- Hold senior or decision-making roles in the New Zealand sports sector
- Have limited previous experience in India
- Provide written support from their national sporting organization or equivalent
- Have pre-established professional contacts in India
Applicants must also demonstrate:
- How the visit will build or strengthen professional relationships
- The long-term value of the proposed engagement
What the Fund Supports
The programme encourages:
- Sports diplomacy
- International partnerships
- Professional exchange visits
- Collaboration with Indian sports organizations
- Cross-cultural engagement
How to Apply
Applicants should:
- Prepare a clear travel and engagement plan
- Identify Indian organizations or professionals they will meet
- Obtain organizational endorsement letters
- Explain expected outcomes and collaboration opportunities
FAQ
- What is the maximum funding amount?
- Successful applicants can receive up to NZD $7,000.
- Who can apply?
- New Zealand citizens or permanent residents in senior sports leadership roles.
- What expenses are covered?
- Flights, accommodation, transport, and conference-related costs.
- Is prior India experience required?
- No, applicants should have limited experience in India.
- Is organizational support required?
- Yes, written support from a national sporting organization or equivalent is required.
- When must travel be completed?
- Supported travel must be completed by 31 December 2026.
Conclusion
The Asia New Zealand Foundation Sports Leaders Fund provides an important opportunity for New Zealand sports leaders to build lasting professional partnerships and deepen sporting collaboration with India through international exchange and engagement.
For more information, visit Asia New Zealand Foundation.


