New grants to support research and community innovation for ageing

The Selwyn Foundation has announced its funding of two new Ageing Well grants, carrying forward the vision of the former Ageing Well National Science Challenge.

Two $25,000 grants are available to support projects that improve mental, physical and cognitive health; strengthen older people’s resilience and capability to age well in place; and help older people stay healthy, independent and connected through intergenerational engagement and community connection.

There are two awards:

• Early-career Research Award – supporting an emerging researcher working in a New Zealand institution who is building an independent research path.

• Community Research Award – supporting community-based research or applying evidence to improve outcomes for older people through strong partnerships between researchers and community organisations.

The grant process will be administered by the Office for Seniors. Projects must clearly demonstrate benefits for older New Zealanders, with a particular focus on Māori, Pacific, women, and rainbow communities.

Expressions of interest must be submitted by 18 February 2026.

Applicants should outline how their project meets the criteria and governance requirements. Shortlisted applicants will then be invited to submit full proposals. Grant recipients will be selected by a committee chaired by the former Directors of the Ageing Well National Science Challenge, with the successful applicants announced by The Selwyn Foundation on 3 April 2026.

The Selwyn Foundation is a registered charity that champions initiatives which enable respectful ageing for vulnerable older people. Through its social impact and mission charitable activities, the Foundation seeks to enable the most vulnerable seniors to age with dignity and respect, and it works with a wide range of organisations and community partners to deliver social impact at scale for those seniors who need it most.

The Selwyn Foundation’s Chief Executive Denise Cosgrove says the new Ageing Well grants are about identifying practical solutions that make a real difference for older people, supporting them to age well in place in their own homes and communities.

“This new partnership is an important initiative in The Selwyn Foundation’s wider charitable mission to enhance the material and spiritual wellbeing of older people in great need: Oranga Mātua, Oranga Tangata – Respectful Ageing for all, within thriving communities.

“Through our grant making and impact investing, we support innovation that promotes equity in ageing and which will help those most at risk of hardship in later life. We therefore look forward to the new Selwyn Foundation Ageing Well grants leading to innovative ideas that will translate into meaningful change and empower seniors to thrive for many years to come.”