Supporting Communities

At Merge NZ, we believe that supporting the Deaf ecosystem is at the heart of everything we do. Deaf culture, our community, and NZSL thrive when they are nurtured and celebrated. By backing small businesses, clubs, community groups, and individuals, we help ensure that this unique language and culture continue to grow and inspire future generations.

We’re proud to stand alongside communities all over Aotearoa, playing our part in building a brighter future and helping people reach their full potential.

Since 2017, Merge NZ has proudly supported:

2018: Waikato Deaf Basketball – trip to the Asian Pacific Deaf Championship in Melbourne, Australia
2019: Deaf Futsal Championship in Palmerston North
2019: Supported two new immersing tutors to attend the Deaf View 4 Conference in Auckland
2020: Supported three new teachers to attend the NZSL Teachers Association Conference in Dunedin
2021: New Zealand Deaf Cricket Tournament in Auckland
2023: Supported two new teachers to attend the NZSL Teachers Association Conference in Palmerston North
2024: Sponsored the Sign Language Interpreters Association of New Zealand Conference in Wellington
2025: Covered five team members to attend the NZSL Teachers Association Conference at the Treaty of Waitangi grounds
2025: Offered a scholarship for our NZSL teacher to attend the Certificate in Deaf Studies at Victoria University of Wellington

Funding Support

If your small business, club or community group is interested in applying for funding, Merge NZ offers limited financial assistance once a year.

What we support:

Projects or events that will benefit NZSL teaching
Initiatives that promote NZSL in the community
Leadership opportunities for Deaf people within NZSL-related areas

How to apply:

Please prepare a short proposal outlining your project or event and email it to director info @ mergenz.co.nz