Agriculture Minister Todd McClay said the government is supporting the next generation of young farmers, growers, and rural leaders through funding for NZ Young Farmers’ nationwide network of clubs.
The government is committing $60,000 in funding to deliver one-off $1,000 grants to each of the 60 Young Farmers clubs nationwide.
“NZ Young Farmers do a huge amount of good in rural communities. We want to support their efforts to help them do even more,” McClay said.
“The funding will help back the important work of small volunteer committees which drive organisation, membership, and event planning at each club.”
He said the committees play a vital role in the clubs’ ongoing success, helping to attract new members, secure event sponsorship, and provide support to young people in rural communities.
Meanwhile, NZ Young Farmers is a non-profit organisation with a long history of connecting, nurturing, and empowering young people in rural communities. McClay said the clubs provide young people with opportunities to develop leadership skills, build networks with like-minded peers, and form lifelong friendships.
“The organisation is part of the fabric of rural New Zealand and will mark its centenary next year.”
“This funding will be a boost for clubs planning local celebrations.”
The government is also supporting the wellbeing of young people in rural communities through the Rural Wellbeing Fund. NZ Young Farmers is among 18 community-based organisations and initiatives receiving funding through it.
According to McClay, “It’s receiving $585,000 to ramp up new initiatives, focusing on physical, mental, and financial wellbeing and leveraging its network of 60 clubs.”
He said the primary industries are the backbone of the economy, supporting local jobs and communities, and that the government is committed to building a future that enables the sector to succeed.