Delighted recipients of Te Tango Akarangatira Ora’anga/Ministry of Internal Affairs (INTAFF) Social Impact Fund (SIF) project initiatives celebrated signing their official grant agreements yesterday.

SIF operates as a contestable grant offering crucial assistance to Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in the Cook Islands. It provides support to registered CSOs charitable groups, sports and faith-based organisations, and community groups.

A total of $193,993.94 in grant from the government is distributed across 14 Civil Society Organisations in the Cook Islands administered by Te Tango Akarangatira Ora’anga.

Clee Marsters, chair of the Social Impact Fund board, was pleased to announce the approval of the 14 proposals – seven from Rarotonga and seven from the Pa Enua.

Marsters said the funding opportunity was open from February 5 to March 1, 2024, giving eligible organisations a window to submit proposals.

The Social Impact Fund board received 25 expressions of interest and 19 proposals – 11 from Rarotonga and eight from the Pa Enua.

“Its primary goal is to facilitate the execution of projects and programmes addressing urgent social issues, fostering community development, and contributing to national development objectives, with a specific emphasis on empowering the most vulnerable members of society,” said Marsters.

Minister for Internal Affairs Rose Vainetutai Toki-Brown and Grace Chynoweth, acting secretary of the ministry, delivered opening remarks at the event that was emceed by Princess Raukete.

The following were the 2023 – 2024 SIF recipients and their representatives:

For Rarotonga: Solutions Cook Islands – Marie Francis, Te Puna Marama Voyaging Foundation – Tua Pittman, Vaimaanga Vainetini and Community – Vaine Boaza, Cook Islands National Council of Women (CINCW) – Nga Teao-Papatua, Muri Environment CARE -Mii Kauvai, Maine Tueporo – William Heather III, and Ngatangiia Girls Brigade – Patience Maoate.

Pa Enua: Aitutaki – Oe Vaka; Atiu – Enuamanu Youth Council, Punakau Tama-Toa Association, Araki Growers & Fishing Association; Mangaia – Mangaia Fishing Club, Iti Vaine Raverave Inc., Tikura Vainetini Inc.