Retail Giant Offers NFPs $1 Million

Australian Retail giant Myer has announced a new program which could see charities receive more than $1 million in funding.

The company revealed this week that it is launching a new Community Investment Program to build on the philanthropic work of founder Sidney Myer.

Myer said it was looking for community organisations to partner with and that the program would focus on supporting and empowering women and strengthening families.

“The Myer Community Investment program will support organisations and initiatives which empower and support women and families to create safe environments including those which seek to prevent violence against women and children, secure economic independence and improved self-esteem for women, promote gender equity and respect and create a culture of non-violence,” a statement from the company said.

Myer said charities could apply for different amounts of funding including:

• Up to $50,000 per year for three consecutive years.

• Up to $100,000 per year for three consecutive years.

• Up to $200,000 per year for three consecutive years.

• Other – organisations may choose to specify a proposed investment and timeframe in their application.

A spokesperson for Myer said the total figure awarded would be at the discretion of the Myer Stores Community Fund Board.

Myer said the program had been created to help support the long-term health and well-being of local communities.

“Our Community Investment program forms part of our commitment to building strong and meaningful relationships with our local communities, and builds on the philanthropic work of company founder, Sidney Myer,” the company said.

“Continuing Sidney Myer’s tradition of giving, we believe that engaging with and contributing to the communities in which we live, work and operate, will lead to a more sustainable future.

“By investing in our local communities, Myer can have a positive social impact and make a lasting contribution to the lives of the people who we interact with every day.

“As an iconic Australian company, Myer has an opportunity to address the challenges facing society. With our strong brand and wide reach, Myer is in a unique position to raise awareness among our communities and form partnerships to help tackle these issues.”

Applications are currently open and interested parties have until 5pm, 20 March, 2015 to submit their applications. All applicants will be notified as to the outcome of their application in May 2015.

Only one application per organisation will be accepted.

A full list of eligibility criteria and guidelines can be found here.