At Community Trust South, we believe strong communities are built on bold ideas and the momentum to bring them to life.
That's why we're proud to support Great South's Investigation, Impetus and Assessment Fund, which helps explore and assess opportunities that can contribute to the future of our region.
Community Trust South Chief Executive, Jackie Flutey, says the support reflects a shared commitment to the region's long-term wellbeing.
"This is about backing ideas with potential, the kind that can help shape the future of Murihiku Southland. Great South plays an important role in identifying and progressing opportunities that strengthen our region, and we're proud to support the early-stage thinking that helps turn possibility into impact."
Through this partnership, Community Trust South supports the investigation, exploration and assessment phases of projects that align with our aspiration of a thriving south and our strategic pou of strong foundations, people and places, and sustainability and climate.
Since 2001, this annual funding has helped unlock initiatives that have gone on to make a significant contribution to the region. These include the Invercargill Heating Loop, investigations into direct air connections between Invercargill and Auckland, the Murihiku Southland Destination Strategy, and housing investigations.
More recently, the fund has supported activity identified in the Beyond 2025 Southland Plan, including regional development leadership, business support and diversification, and Southland Youth Futures which recently held its second vocational excellence awards - highlighting the potential of our rangatahi.
Importantly, the Trust’s support of Great South enables projects that might not otherwise proceed due to limited resources or capacity, but which have the potential to deliver long-term benefits for Southland communities.
Together, Community Trust South and Great South are investing in ideas, partnerships and pathways that can help shape a thriving and sustainable future for Murihiku Southland. When potential is recognised and supported early, it can grow into opportunities that benefit the whole region.
