Big news! We’ve got something special to share...Te Pou Theatre has been awarded a major grant from the Citi Foundation’s Global Innovation Challenge and we’re still buzzing!
Out of more than 1,000 applications across the world, Te Pou is one of just 50 organisations to be selected, and the only one (ever!) from Aotearoa. We’re incredibly proud to be representing our corner of the world, and even more excited about what this means for our community.
With this pūtea, we’re piloting our brand-new AKO Performing Arts Training Programme, a kaupapa Māori initiative to support rangatahi Māori into real, sustainable careers in Te Ao Whakaari.
This programme is designed for young people under 24 who are keen to get stuck into the performing arts industry, whether behind the scenes or at the heart of creative production. Think: lighting design, producing, stage management, marketing, technical ops and more. Real-world experience, hands-on learning, and authentic mentoring in a kaupapa Māori-led space.
It’s about building capability, creating pathways, and wrapping support around our future storytellers.
This grant is a huge step forward, but it’s not the end game, it’s just the beginning.
The funding from Citi Foundation is dedicated to delivering this pilot, which means we can develop something new without drawing on the resources we rely on to keep Te Pou running day-to-day. But the dream is bigger than the pilot – we want to make this sustainable, long-term, and part of the infrastructure that lifts our whole sector.
We’re always keen to hear from potential supporters, funders, collaborators and champions who believe in this mahi. Whether you’re curious about AKO, interested in backing future years, or want to support Te Pou more broadly, we’d love to kōrero.
You can reach us at: funding@tepoutheatre.nz
Ngā mihi nui to everyone who’s been part of this journey so far. This kaupapa stands on the shoulders of all those who’ve supported us over the years.
Nō reira, rangatahi mā – stay ready. Big things are coming.
This programme is supported through the 2025 Citi Foundation Innovation Grant
