Canon Oceania has revealed the winners of its 2024 Grants Program, recognizing four Australian organizations that are making meaningful contributions to their local communities.
This year marks the introduction of a First Nations Grant category, alongside the existing categories of Community, Education, and Environment. Each winning organization will receive a $5,000 grant, comprised of $2,500 in cash and $2,500 worth of Canon products such as cameras, lenses, and printers.
The 2024 grant recipients are:
- First Nations Category: Kimberley Ecosystem Restoration & Cypress Pine Conservation Project
This First Nations-led initiative aims to increase the Cypress Pine population to bolster ecosystem resilience in the face of climate change. With historical significance to the Kimberley region, the project also supports the care of Country by First Nations knowledge holders. Canon’s support will enhance environmental education programs in the area. - Community Category: The Reconnect Project
Addressing Australia’s digital divide, The Reconnect Project distributes refurbished mobile technology to those in need and trains neurodivergent young adults in device repair. Canon cameras will be used to create virtual tutorials, extending the program’s reach to rural and remote communities. - Education Category: Farm My School
This initiative transforms unused school land into market gardens, providing food for local communities and educational opportunities for students. Canon equipment will capture high-quality recordings of workshops to make them accessible to a wider audience. - Environment Category: Farmers for Climate Action
This organization promotes strong climate decarbonization policies that benefit farmers. Canon’s grant will help them capture workshops and webinars, creating content to educate and raise awareness about sustainable agricultural practices.
Research and Commitment to Sustainability
Research conducted for Canon Oceania reveals that rising living costs are affecting Australians’ commitment to sustainability, with more than half of respondents reducing their support for environmental and community initiatives due to financial pressures. This finding underscores the need for continued support for community initiatives.
Canon Oceania remains committed to closing the technology divide and empowering more Australians to share their stories and build essential skills. “Guided by our Kyosei philosophy, we aim to inspire progress and strengthen connections throughout the country,” said Kotaro Fukushima, Managing Director of Canon Oceania.
Celebrating Achievements
The Canon Oceania Grants Program, now in its 18th year, has supported over 110 organizations across Australia and New Zealand, providing more than $550,000 in funding and product support. The company’s Kyosei philosophy, which promotes living and working together for the common good, continues to guide these efforts.
The 2024 New Zealand winners, each receiving a $5,000 grant, include Heartfelt NZ (Community), Supporters of Tiritiri Matangi (Environment), The Seed Pod (Education), and TKKM o Puau te Moananui-ā-Kiwa (Cultural).
Keep up to date with our stories on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
