Not-for-profit sector to benefit from new scholarship program

Twelve emerging leaders are set to benefit from a new scholarship program developed to address the lack of training and professional development opportunities in the not-for-profit sector.

A recent study found 33 per cent of managers and executives in the not-for-profit sector have no access to a designated budget for training and development*.

Australian Scholarships Foundation (ASF) Chief Executive Officer Samantha Sayers said the scholarships are part of a new partnership between ASF, Domino’s registered charity,

Give for Good, and Melbourne Business School. The program aims to help build the leadership capacity of the Australian not-for-profit sector.

“Many charities and not-for-profit organisations often don’t have the opportunity to invest in their own people by funding education and training,” she said.

“We hope that these scholarships will help emerging leaders in the sector to build on their skills and capacity, which will in turn benefit the communities they work with.”

The Give for Good New Leaders Scholarships will support 12 emerging leaders to participate in the five day New Leaders Development Program at Melbourne Business School in September this year.

The scholarships will be offered to individuals employed by an Australian charity or not-for-profit organisation, with preference given to organisations that support education and youth initiatives, disaster relief, and/or rural communities. Remote applicants will be eligible for additional support through a select number of Rural Travel Grants.

Using a combination of practical tools, personal development and peer discussion, the program will boost self-awareness, confidence and expertise so charity workers can become more effective leaders.

Domino’s Director of Giving John Harney said Give for Good is committed to helping develop, foster and upskill local leaders to create adaptive communities.

“We are proud to fund access to the New Leaders Development Program through ASF and build the capacity of not-for-profits through these scholarships,” he said.

“Leadership is a key focus area for Give for Good and supporting initiatives that upskill, mentor and build effective leaders that strengthen and connect local communities.”

Melbourne Business School General Manager of Open Programs Leeanne O'Connor said the university was looking forward to facilitating the program.

“We are excited to help not-for-profit leaders strengthen their impact on the community through this partnership with Give for Good and the Australian Scholarships Foundation,” Ms O'Connor said.

“The program will equip participants with the skills, insights and tools to build their personal and organisational effectiveness.”

Applications are now open and will close on Tuesday 25 June 2019. To apply, visit www.scholarships.org.au/supporters/key-supporters/give-for-good.

*Wenzel, R, 2015, Learning for Purpose: Researching the Social Return on Education and Training in the Australian Not-for-Profit Sector, University of Western Australia.