The Selwyn Foundation embarked on a transformation process two years ago, selling six of its seven rest homes, with a goal to invest $100 million over the next decade to drive social impact at scale. The Challenge is the first step on that journey, aiming to fund innovative products and services that significantly improve outcomes for older people.

The Challenge has two categories, each with different criteria.

Three grants worth $50,000 each will be awarded to enable organisations to conduct a feasibility study or pilot. Another pool of $400,000 will be available for up to five “Boost” projects, to help expand the reach or impact of an enterprise’s existing product or service.

Applicants are encouraged to take an evidence-based approach that addresses the key areas of disadvantage: health, housing, financial hardship, social isolation/loneliness, and access. Solutions that target groups who have been identified as especially vulnerable, such as single women, older Māori and Pacific people, are particularly sought.

Products or services that serve the Auckland and Northland regions will also be prioritised.

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