FRRR and VFFF are now inviting applications for grants of $50,000 from individuals and groups of individuals working to enhance the lives of people aged 12-30 who live in remote, rural and regional NSW. The funding is through the Backing the Future program. 

The grants are a rare opportunity for individuals to test out a new “big idea” to support young people in their community, without having to first prove the concept. The money can be used to assist in researching, piloting or accelerating early-stage ideas and can be used for a range of purposes such as paying a salary, purchasing technology or covering rent for office space, as long as it supports the approved initiative. 

VFFF CEO, Jenny Wheatley, said this is the third round of this program in NSW, but the first where VFFF is partnering with FRRR. 

“It is fantastic to have FRRR onboard.” 

“Not only will more people know about the program, recipients will have access to FRRR’s capacity building support throughout the duration of the grant term for example, training on impact measurement, developing sustainable projects, or good governance,” added Wheatley. 

“In the first four rounds of Backing the Future, we’ve seen passionate people make wonderful progress on youth-related issues that matter to them and their community and have enhanced the lives of young people.” 

For example, Jae Brieffies had a vision to inspire young people in central NSW to think more broadly about their career opportunities, boost their aspirations and provide support to create practical plans for their future careers and lives. She and her team delivered the Bright Generation program to students in years 9-12 at five central NSW high schools, with 86% reporting increased confidence in making decisions about their future. They also hosted a three-day trip to Canberra, connecting them with mentors but also running workshops on financial literacy and job applications, alongside exploring the Australian National University and Parliament House. 

“Not only was this a great outcome for young people, but Jae, as a young person, was empowered to carry out her vision. This is the kind of initiative that we are keen to support and I look forward to seeing this year’s applications,” said Wheatley. 

FRRR CEO, Natalie Egleton, said that FRRR is excited to have the opportunity to support the next generation of leaders in remote, rural and regional NSW to bring their ideas to life. 

“From our work over the last nearly 25 years, we know that young people living in the regions have some wonderful ideas. But often they can’t access the funding to get started.” 

Egleton highlighted that they’ll provide more than just money to help them step into these leadership roles and be a catalyst to real change. 

“The exciting thing about this program is that while the project must benefit younger people, anyone who has an idea that supports young people can apply for the funding,” Egleton explained.