Technology Funding for NFPs Available

Not for Profit organisations can now apply for grants of up to $30,000 and loans of up to $100,000 to help them better harness technology.

The Telematics Course Development Fund (Telematics Trust) has launched its open grant round to support organisations that want to use technology to transform lives through learning for the “cultural, social and economic benefits of Victorians”.

“The Trust aims to fund initiatives that achieve its vision, by demonstrating the innovative use of technology through education. Projects should reach diverse groups and address important practical problems in the community, be they social, economic or environmental,” a statement by the Trust said.

“These projects should also be able to demonstrate a drive to measurably improve the well-being of their participants.

“To achieve this, the Trust provides unique funding opportunities to individuals, educational institutes, Government, business, Not for Profit organisations and social enterprises that aim to foster innovation in education, support the use of new technologies and promote Victorian lead initiatives that benefit Victorian communities.”

The Trust said it recognised that solving the most pressing challenges requires collaboration and teamwork and therefore those seeking funding must have some level of partnership funding, be it cash or in-kind support.

Two forms of funding are available to organisations.

1. Grants

The Trust provides grants of up to $30,000 but will consider applications for larger grant requests in exceptional circumstances.

2. Loans

Of up to $100,000 – security for all loans must be provided.

The Trust will not fund;

• Projects that are almost entirely infrastructural and/or equipment;
• Projects that are almost entirely salary and/or travel costs;
• Projects that merely translate curriculum materials from one medium to another;
• Core organisational costs;
• Projects lacking innovation; and/or
• ‘Apps’ that are compatible with only one platform (must be compatible for both Android and iPhone platforms).

All projects must;

• Be based in Victoria and be for the benefit of Victoria and Victorians;
• Be education and/or training driven and market oriented; and
• Have applicant partnership funding in either cash or in-kind.

More information about the Telematics Trust and the application form can be obtained from www.telematics.org.au.

The closing date for applications is 5pm on Monday, March 30, 2015.