Grants for young adults in Melbourne's north-west
Back your big goal.
The Moonee Valley Foundation gives grants to people aged 17 to 32 who are chasing excellence in study, sport, the arts, the environment, a vocation or their community.
- 17–32 years old
- Grants of up to $10,000 each year
- Backing locals since 1986
Who we are
Lifting young people, and the whole community.
MVF administers awards and grants to young adults within the north-western regions of Melbourne.
The Foundation encourages young adults to achieve excellence in education, training, community or other personal endeavours, which ultimately benefits the broader community. We also provide encouragement awards to students at local high schools who have shown resilience when faced with tough situations in their final years.
The Foundation was formed as the Essendon Anniversary Scholarship Trust Fund in 1986. The former Essendon City Council initiated a trust to provide an annual ongoing award for local young adults, and public donations and council backing established the funds. Since then, grants have been awarded to outstanding individuals passionate about making a difference in the municipality.
Moonee Valley Foundation operates separately from council and is managed by a Board of Directors of local business and professional people, on a voluntary basis.
More about us
Formed as the Essendon Anniversary Scholarship Trust Fund.
Run by a voluntary board of local business and professional people.
Am I eligible?
Three things. That's it.
If all three are true for you, you can apply for an Award of Excellence.
Your age
You're between 17 and 32 years old.
Your connection
You're part of the north-west community: you live, work, play or play sport in the region.
Your timing
You can use the funding within two years of receiving the grant.
What a grant can pay for
Real costs that move you forward.
Grants recognise excellence in your chosen field, whether that's academic, sporting, environmental, artistic or vocational. They cover specific activities or items, rather than spending money.
We especially welcome initiatives that could improve the lives and experiences of people in Melbourne's north-west.
See the grant detailsEducation or training
Costs associated with your study or training.
Travel to an event
Getting to and attending a conference or event.
Tools and equipment
The gear you need for your field.
Academic projects
The pursuit of an academic project.
How it works
From idea to presentation night.
Check you're eligible
Three quick questions. No sign-up needed.
Apply online
Five short steps: you, your project, why you, your budget and the declaration. Answers save on your device as you go.
Interview
Finalists meet a panel of Foundation board members.
Celebrate
Grants are presented in August. Recipients report back when their project wraps up.
Key dates
When to apply
You can submit an Award of Excellence application at any time of year. The closing date is 31 May every year.
- Any time
Apply online for the Award of Excellence.
- 31 May
The closing date each year. Get yours in by this date.
- June
Finalists are interviewed by a board panel.
- August
Grant presentations. Winners are required to attend.
Interview and presentation dates are to be announced. School Encouragement Grants run separately: nominations open in September and close in November each year.
Meet our latest recipients
Talent from right here.
Six young people were celebrated at our most recent presentation night.
Charlotte McLean
Travelled to NZ for the annual scientific meeting of the Human Genetics Society of Australasia. Charlotte is working towards becoming a genetic counsellor for cystic fibrosis.
Christian Failla
Heading to the London School of Economics for a semester exchange studying Global Business and Social Impact.
Adele Roeder
Aims to undertake a Masters of Environmental Management at the University of Queensland, looking at diversity on boards.
Harry O’Halloran
Represented Victoria at the Australian Gymnastics Competition. The Victorian team placed third overall.
Geoffrey Fairservice
Represented Victoria at the Australian Gymnastics Competition, winning gold in the rings.
James Macaulay
Will take part in an acting masterclass.
Your support started a chain reaction of events that has led me to not only achieving my professional goals but also my personal happiness.Liam Castellas, 2008 recipient, cricket coach
Quick answers
Before you ask.
How much can I apply for?
Grants of up to $10,000 are available each year. You set out the amount you're requesting in your budget.
What happens if I'm shortlisted?
Finalists are contacted to arrange an interview with a panel of Moonee Valley Foundation board members. They review applications on how well they meet the criteria, the suitability of the budget, and presentation at the interview.
Do I have to attend the presentation?
Presentations take place in August each year and winners are required to attend. Alternative arrangements can be made by exception, for example if you're overseas at the time.
Got a goal? Let's get it funded.
Check you're eligible in three quick questions, then apply online. Your answers save as you go.