PNZ Bupa Inclusive Para Sport Grant
Paralympics New Zealand (PNZ) and Bupa have partnered to support sport and community organisations to promote and deliver inclusive Para sport opportunities across Aotearoa New Zealand.
The PNZ Bupa Inclusive Para Sport Grant programme aims to increase participation and inclusion opportunities for participants in Para sport, while strengthening pathways that may identify future Paralympic potential.
Objective of the grant
- Increase participation in Para sport across Aotearoa New Zealand.
- Reduce barriers for potential and existing participants in Para sport including fostering inclusive, sustainable and supportive environments.
- Strengthen pathways for participants and coaches in Para sport from community to Paralympic level.
- Build capability within the sport sector.
- Enhance wellbeing and social inclusion.
- New Zealanders attitudes towards disability have been positively changed.
Who can apply?
Applications are invited from the following organisation types:
- National Sports Organisations (NSOs) / National Disability Sports Organisations (NDSOs)
- Regional Disability Sports Organisations (RDSOs)
- Community sport organisations including clubs or associations
- Other organisations linked to providing Para sport opportunities, disability education and awareness
What can be funded?
Applications must clearly show that the proposed initiative or project supports the objectives of the PNZ Bupa Inclusive Para Sport Grant programme.
Examples of initiatives or projects that could be funded include (but are not limited to):
- Pilots involving collaboration between one or more NSO, RDSO, club, community or education organisation;
- Inclusive coaching workshops increasing Para sport literacy, adaptability and experience;
- Try Para Sport day/sessions targeting participants not actively involved in Para sport;
- Para sport activity day/sessions led by trained coaches, with ongoing mentoring support;
- Inclusive sport day that includes disabled and non-disabled students promoting disability awareness and inclusive practices;
- Small equipment grants for adaptive equipment linked to an initiative or project.
Allocated grant funding can be utilised to cover costs in (one or more of) the following areas:
Para sport initiative or project delivery (e.g. operating costs, venue and/or equipment hire).
- Equipment (only when it is needed as part of the initiative or project, not for individual use).
- Officials and coaches where these are required for delivery of the initiative or project.
- Staff who will deliver the initiative or project, where they are not already funded from other sources.
How to apply
Applications must be completed no later than 15 July 2026 at 5pm.
To apply, read the application guidelines below and hit Apply Now to fill out the application form.
FAQ's
Can the Grant support the extension of an existing or previously delivered project or initiative?
Yes, where the project or initiative clearly demonstrates expansion beyond the original activity, and achieves the outcomes described in the Grant criteria.
Can the Grant be used to support classification?
The Grant cannot be used to fund standalone classification activities. However, where the project or initiative incorporates classification that contributes and supports wider Para sport outcomes, this could be considered.
Is the funding opportunity ongoing, and are applications accepted annually?
In 2026, the Grant opportunity is being delivered as a targeted pilot. However, Paralympics New Zealand (PNZ) and Bupa remain committed to exploring further Grant opportunities in 2027 and beyond. There is only one application window in 2026. Pending review of the pilot, the application process for future windows will be finalised and communicated.
Could the Grant support collaboration between multiple organisations and Para sports?
Yes, cooperation and partnerships are identified as key Grant criteria. The opportunity for organisations across different Para sports to work together is encouraged.
Can the Grant be used to purchase capital items (e.g., major equipment)?
Applicants must be able to demonstrate that any equipment purchases are not for individuals, and any such purchases could be utilised to support the Grant’s key criteria.
If our activity involved a large group of potential participants and their whānau, in a social activity, could this be part of our application?
The Grant cannot be used to support recreational or social activities, with priority given to activity that aligns to the Grant key criteria with a focus on Para sport.
Can the Grant be used to deliver volunteer training?
The Grant cannot be used to fund individual volunteer training activity. However, where the project or initiative includes volunteer training which contributes and supports wider Para sport outcomes, this could be considered.
How much money is available in this round of Grant applications?
It is expected that four to six projects or initiatives in this initial pilot round will be successful in receiving Grant funding.
Is the 15 November 2026 implementation date fixed?
Yes, all projects or initiatives successful in receiving Grant funding must be implemented by this date. This will enable PNZ and Bupa to review the interest, applications, and outcomes of the initial pilot, as we look to shape potential future Grant funding.
Can the Grant support non-Para sport activity?
Applications should include projects or initiatives that involve a recognised Para sport(s), and any such activity should deliver against key Grant criteria.
