The Ian Potter Foundation operates nine program areas: the Arts, Community Wellbeing, Education, Environment & Conservation, Health & Disability, Medical Research, Science, Travel, and Conference.
Grant-making across all program areas is underpinned by the following principles:
- A commitment to excellence
We support organisations, programs and individuals who are outstanding in their field.
- A focus on prevention
To maximise the value of our grants, we try to identify and support projects that address the causes of any problems rather than treat the symptoms. Supporting research is fundamental to this approach.
- Encourage innovation
We seek to fund programs and projects that take a new approach to solving problems, especially those that can be evaluated and have potential for expansion and further development.
- Potential for leverage
Our grants have greater impact when combined with support from other sources. These might include other trusts and foundations, government, business or volunteers. We are happy to be one of a number of supporters of a program.
- Long-term thinking
We try to fund projects that will continue to have an impact well beyond the period of our grant. The long term sustainability of the project is an important consideration.
- Partnerships
We encourage collaborations and partnerships that facilitate combining knowledge and resources to achieve a shared goal.