Hunter charities to share in $100,000 in celebration of nib foundation's 10 year milestone

nib foundation has launched a special grant round, Pitch for a Healthy Cause, to celebrate its 10th anniversary of giving, with a pool of $100,000 in funding up for grabs for three registered charities with a presence in the Hunter.

Applications open today, with the foundation focusing its support on organisations that are actively supporting local communities in recognition of its original roots as a Hunter-based business and foundation.

"What better way to celebrate our milestone anniversary than giving back to the community that has supported both the foundation and nib throughout the years," nib foundation Executive Officer, Amy Tribe said.

"There are so many deserving local charities that work tirelessly every day to tackle health issues in our community. Through this special grant round we're offering a helping hand by providing the chance to raise awareness and secure financial support for their cause," she added.

The foundation will support grassroots organisations who are working to improve the health and wellbeing outcomes of vulnerable or disadvantaged communities of people living in the Newcastle and Hunter region.

To be eligible charities must demonstrate an existing presence in at least one of the following Local Government Areas: Cessnock, Dungog, Lake Macquarie, Maitland, Muswellbrook, Newcastle, Port Stephens Singleton or the Upper Hunter.

Three finalists will be selected to participate in a unique event in October where they'll each pitch for their share of the $100,000 funding pool to be allocated by nib customers and pitch night attendees.

"It's a fantastic opportunity to share the spirit of giving with our stakeholders and build the capacity of smaller local charities to continue and expand the great work they are already undertaking in the Hunter region," Ms Tribe said.

"The finalists will also receive pitch coaching to help them hone their skills ahead of the pitch night from our event partner and live crowdfunding specialists, The Funding Network. This specialist training is a valuable opportunity to work on their value proposition that will help set them up for future success in securing support for their missions," she added.

nib foundation was first established in 2008 following a $25 million donation from nib health funds, which was raised through the issue of new shares at the time of nib's listing on the Australian Securities Exchange.

It's been a big decade of giving with the foundation providing $16 million in funding to support more than 100 charities to make a real and measurable difference to the health and wellbeing of people and communities across Australia.

"We're excited to be celebrating our 10th anniversary through this special grant round and pitch night. It's a great opportunity for our closest stakeholders to come together to celebrate the great work of the foundation and its partners, while also taking part in a positive initiative that brings to life what nib foundation is all about – helping people and communities live healthier lives," Ms Tribe said.

The Pitch for Healthy Cause Guidelines, Application Form and Eligibility Criteria are now available at nib foundation. Applications can be submitted via the online submission form from 25 June – 20 July.