The Simplicity Foundation distributed a total of $688,000 in the September funding round, across a range of impactful initiatives. These donations focused on supporting environmental preservation, education, youth development, and social support.


Environment

The Nature Conservancy was granted $100,000 for the second year of its Kotahitanga mō te Taiao Alliance project in the South Island. Simplicity Foundation’s contribution specifically aids pest eradication, planting, and reforestation efforts in this biodiverse region, essential to protecting New Zealand’s unique flora and fauna.

Predator Free NZ also received $100,000 to support a nationwide backyard trapping program for 2025. Administered by Predator Free NZ, this funding aims to empower communities across the country to protect native wildlife through grassroots pest control efforts.

Trees That Count received a donation of $52,500 as the first instalment for planting 7,000 trees in 2025. This initiative is set to enhance community planting projects throughout Aotearoa, helping to restore native forests and improve local ecosystems.


Education

In the education sector, Simplicity Foundation funded various organisations working to expand learning opportunities and provide essential financial support.

First Foundation was awarded $66,000 to support 3 new First Foundation Scholars in 2025. These new scholars are from Methven, Whangarei, and Levin, and this scholarship support will give them access to mentorship and financial assistance to pursue tertiary education.

Debtfix, a key partner in debt consolidation and KiwiSaver hardship processing, received $50,000. This funding will enhance Debtfix’s operational capacity, helping it offer financial guidance to vulnerable communities.

Consumer NZ was granted $50,000 to bolster its capacity for public interest research and advocacy. This support aligns with Simplicity Foundation’s belief in the importance of empowering consumers with transparent, accurate information.

YES received $50,000 to help translate its programme resources into te reo Māori, enabling students in Kura Kaupapa to access culturally relevant education tools.


Youth development programmes

Investing in New Zealand’s youth is a core focus for Simplicity Foundation, evidenced by its funding for employment readiness and mentorship programs.

Big Brothers Big Sisters NZ was awarded $80,000 to support its national mentoring program. This grant aims to help launch new initiatives, providing young New Zealanders with meaningful mentorship and guidance during crucial developmental stages.

Zeal, a youth organisation, received $30,000 for its North Island Youth Employability Programme, designed to help young people gain essential workplace skills.


Social development

In the area of homelessness, hunger, and basic needs, Simplicity Foundation extended support to grassroots efforts making an immediate impact.

Common, a volunteer-led organisation focused on clothing distribution, received $10,000. Common’s mission not only provides clothing to those in need but also aims to significantly reduce garment waste— a key environmental benefit.

Additionally, One Percent Collective received $100,000 in operational support for its regular giving platform. This grant aims to empower more New Zealanders to participate in charitable giving through a streamlined, accessible platform and hopes to be the beginning of a closer relationship between the two organisations moving forward.



Photo: Kotahitanga mō te Taiao Alliance, The Nature Conservancy