Applications

NEXT ran two Expression of Interest open application processes in 2014 and 2015, but will not be scheduling any further EOI processes. We will still consider funding environmental and education initiatives that are within our areas of investment focus – in environment, a predator-free New Zealand and healthy rivers; and in education, the first 1,000 days of life, educational leadership and teacher excellence.

To be considered for that investment, projects should be transformational with the potential to be catalysts for system change in the space they act in, have inspirational leadership with a commitment to excellence and an inclusive partnership approach, and be business-like in the way they operate. As part of this, we will be looking for characteristics such as:

• A clear definition of the problem or need being addressed
• A clear objective(s) and plan to achieve that
• Are or will be well supported by research and analysis, i.e. evidence-based
• The potential to (efficiently) achieve national scale and impact
• Measurable outcomes at key stages
• Good management and governance
• Have addressed the issue of long term sustainability – not just financially (NEXT is not a “forever funder”), but also in respect of resources, capabilities and partnerships

The initial application form that was used in the EOI processes gives an indication of the first questions we will ask in any approach for funding.