Otago organisations’ Sport NZ grants top $750,000

OTAGO sporting organisations received just over $750,000 from the second community resilience fund set up by Sport NZ.

The fund was part of the $265 million sports recovery package announced by the Government in May.

The first resilience fund was set up to keep clubs and organisations in business and cover fixed costs in the early stages of the pandemic while the second fund was set up by Sport NZ to cover both fixed and operational costs.

The first fund distributed $6 million to nearly 2000 clubs and regional organisations.

The second resilience fund bettered the initial $10 million up to $15 million as more applications came in over the opening weeks. The second fund was to cover costs for the period from July to September.

Applications of up to $25,000 were allowed to cover both fixed and operational costs the second time around.

“The broadening of the eligibility criteria from the previous community resilience fund has meant more organisations were able to apply for support, including applicants that were not affiliated to Sport NZ national partners. This has helped a wider range of community organisations to continue to deliver activities and programmes that have a key role in maintaining individual and community health and wellbeing,’’ Sport NZ chief executive said.

Basketball Otago, Netball South, Otago Cricket Association, Otago Hockey Association and the Otago Rugby Football Union all sought and received $25,000.

In the community resilience fund’s second round, 106 organisations and clubs in Otago received grants ranging from $136 to $25,000. A total of 13 organisations received the maximum available of $25,000.

Across the country, a total of

Peter Miskimmin 2070 applicants from regional and local organisations received funding of $14,954,927 to cover fixed and operational costs for the period July 1September 30.

Only 180 applications nationally were declined.

In the grants of more than $5000, 98 groups and organisations associated with NZ Rugby were granted $1.288 million.

NZ Football was granted $1.251 million for 84 groups. Scouting groups received the highest number of funds.