Looking Beyond a Funding Crisis
Even in economically difficult times, charities are doing essential, future-focused work
We’ve said it many times before, and we’ll say it again: the wellbeing of the most vulnerable in Aotearoa—and therefore the wellbeing of our nation as a whole—often relies on charities and non-profits. There are many incredible organisations across the motu doing the mahi to create a safety net and a step up for people who need it. At DFA, we’re proud to be a small part of this broad and deep mission. The reality is that when digital equity is achieved, it’s not just a win for the individual, it’s a win for all of Aotearoa. A laptop in the hands of a student means access to education, a doorway to opportunity, and a step toward economic resilience.
As we disrupt generational cycles of disadvantage by providing devices to those who need them and equipping tamariki and rangatahi with tech skills for the future, other organisations are filling in other gaps. They’re finding housing for the homeless; distributing blankets and warm clothing; caring for women fleeing domestic violence; making breakfasts for school kids; offering budgeting and jobseeking advice; and much more. Currently, the political climate and economic situation are putting pressure on all of these charities and non-profits. It’s increasingly difficult to find the funding we need to operate.
A fiscal pickle: funding scarcity in 2025
The current government has reduced funding for charities and public services in general in its budget, with digital equity very low on the already diminished list. Government contracts have become largely unavailable for most organisations. Foodbanks have warned of closure, city missions have had to turn away people in need, and charities in general are struggling. In the case of an organisation like DFA, with objectives that are important long-term but not meeting as basic a need as food or housing, the chances of government funding are minuscule.
The broader fiscal situation adds to and is intrinsic to this lack of funding from central government. New Zealand’s economy is recovering from a period of recession. While most economists are optimistic for a rebound later in the year, many people and organisations are spending with care, and this further narrows funding options for charities. This situation isn't just numbers on a budget sheet; it’s real families left disconnected. “I was displaced from my country of origin and granted refugee status in NZ in 2022. I am studying for the first time at Ara. This device will help me in my studies,” shared a refugee laptop recipient from Ōtautahi.
Our Recycle A Device students supporting a local Outreach and Code Club kura with laptop refurbishment.
Digital equity is future proofing
Our mahi is future-focused; we’re equipping young people and their whānau with crucial skills that will enable them to access career opportunities, education, healthcare, banking, and more. For tamariki around the country, building their first program, learning to code isn’t just about technology—it’s about possibility. “My superpower was soccer, but it is now coding too,” shared Sam, a 9-year-old participant.
The outcomes achieved by Recycle A Device, Code Club, Ōtautahi Outreach, and Digital Pīkau may not be considered an urgent need when funding is scarce, but to neglect the underlying issues that exacerbate poverty cycles and inequity is to remain stagnant. Even in fiscally difficult times, the success of our programmes and others like them is important to our long-term success as a nation.
Young New Zealanders receiving valuable tech skills
Our impact is cost-effective
In a time when resources are limited, funding dollars must show a solid return on investment. The more cost-effective a program or service is, the more good it can do with a small amount of money.
We believe that the work DFA does through our various initiatives is valuable and far-reaching, but we might be biased. It was great to read the end-of-year impact report from 2024 which confirmed it! This quick overview demonstrates how much our kaimahi have achieved with limited funding. Here are some numbers of which we’re particularly proud:
Recycle A Device refurbished 2,920 laptops to be donated back into the community, upskilling 658 rangatahi along the way—all at a low operating cost that worked out to $146 per laptop.
In 2024 Code Club Aotearoa had 332 clubs operating across the nation, teaching 3,984 tamariki crucial tech skills. The operating cost was $4.89 per child per month, showing a $1 : $4.80 social return on investment.
Ōtautahi Outreach served 591 ākonga and 109 kaiako in 2024 for an investment of $312 per ākonga and $1,694 per kaiako. Teachers came away feeling better equipped and more confident to deliver the Digital Technologies curriculum.
Our “online backpack”, Digital Pīkau, is an example of letting no value go to waste, capturing mahi to reach and benefit as many people as possible. A collection of freely available resources created for Code Clubs and Ōtautahi Outreach sessions, it provides educators with lesson ideas, inspiration, and instruction.
Make a real difference
We’re currently seeking funders and donors who are willing to get behind our mahi and invest in long-term, high-return social good. Particularly for companies in the tech sector, it is a relevant and impactful choice for any philanthropic efforts. We’re an award-winning organisation with a strong social media presence and supporting DFA is more than just a donation; it’s an investment in Aotearoa's future.
As Carl Layton, Foodstuffs North Island User Technology Manager, said, “As a proud New Zealand-owned and operated co-operative, it means a lot to us to see the real benefit for New Zealanders that RAD delivers.”
There are several ways to contribute to our mahi:
monetary donations - just $146 pays for a laptop refurbishment or $4.89 covers the cost of Code Club for a child each month,
pre-loved laptop donations,
volunteering, and;
via platforms like One Percent Collective and Share My Super.
If you’re interested in contributing in some way, large or small, please head over to our donations page and get in touch. We’d love to hear from you!
