Legacy Fund launches to boost rugby's future generations
New Zealand Rugby (NZR) has today opened applications to the Legacy Fund, designed to support projects which will have an intergenerational impact on the game.
The Legacy Fund will distribute the annual earnings on a $60m perpetual fund held by New Zealand Rugby.
Registered as a charitable trust, the Fund is designed to sit alongside other funding avenues to assist with projects of any size which will strengthen rugby and Kiwi communities, honouring the game’s past by investing in the future.
Applications will be open to any organisation connected to rugby in Aotearoa New Zealand, from community rugby clubs, Provincial Unions, iwi or hapū, to schools or wider collectives.
NZR Legacy Fund Manager Cameron Bell said: “This is a really exciting moment for the whole game, to be in the position to make a real impact for future generations in the sport we all love. The Legacy Fund will develop new initiatives or supplement other existing funding sources to help with projects that may be more difficult to fund, but will ensure that the game endures.
“We hope to see projects which will boost the game and its participants around the country. That could be anything from rugby skill development programmes, using rugby to drive community health, mental resilience workshops, facility or technological upgrades, or capital developments like women’s changing rooms or accessible clubrooms. What’s really exciting is that someone may be sitting on a fantastic idea that we haven’t thought of. We can’t wait to see some inspired applications.”
NZR Chief Executive Mark Robinson said it was great to see the Fund open for applications, continuing the investment into the grassroots game - “With Silver Lake’s investment in 2022, community clubs have shared $7.5m, $2m has gone into Māori Rugby, and $20m shared across the Provincial Unions. The Legacy Fund’s $60m base will generate even more opportunity to support and grow the game.
“As the name suggests, the Legacy Fund is about preserving and fostering the game in New Zealand, allowing it to be passed on in a better place. Everyone involved in rugby has a responsibility to the next generation, and this is a wonderful gift for those who are yet to come.”
Applications will be considered by the Legacy Fund Advisory Group, consisting of NZR's CEO and GM of Community Rugby, as well as representatives from:
NZR Board
Māori Rugby
Pasifika Rugby
Three Provincial Unions
Super Rugby
New Zealand Rugby Players Association
As a registered charity, the Legacy Fund is able to accept donations and bequests from people wanting to contribute to rugby’s legacy themselves. More detail about this can be found on the NZR website.
Applications will be open until 12 October. Successful projects will be announced and funds will be distributed in December.
To find out more about the Legacy Fund, including how to apply, visit: www.nzrugby.co.nz/legacyfund
