Case Study: Milford Foundation

How does the Millford Foundation support MoneyTime?

The Milford Foundation is 2.5 years into a 5 year donor agreement with MoneyTime. As the cornerstone sponsor in New Zealand we donate a significant sum each year. Our commitment goes beyond financial though and includes advocating for, and publicising, the incredible work MoneyTime does to equip young Kiwis with financial literacy.  

What were your key considerations when deciding to support MoneyTime?

MoneyTime aligns well with the Milford Foundation’s goal to improve New Zealand for future generations. The programme targets students at the right age to establish a life-long thirst for financial literacy, which will in turn open doors and create study and career opportunities that may not have been achievable otherwise. It measures the improvement in Financial Literacy in each student and is a self-taught tool that is easily introduced into classes over the internet. It’s a straightforward programme for teachers to understand and introduce, yet its results are amazing. The concepts, delivered in a fun and engaging way, gives students the tools to make good financial decisions. The implications for themselves, and their generation, is immeasurable.

Why do you think it is important for students to learn financial literacy?

The ability to make wise financial decisions isn’t something we’re born with – it’s something we’re taught, and sadly many people haven’t had the benefit of a programme like MoneyTime to help them on that journey. Understanding concepts like budgeting, saving, investing, and managing debt can help young people avoid financial pitfalls and build a secure future. Financial literacy also empowers students to navigate real-world challenges, such as planning for major expenses (like attending university or buying a car) and saving or investing for long-term goals (like buying a house or retirement). In today’s world, where financial decisions are part of daily life, having these skills can make a big difference in their personal and professional well-being.

How does your organisation leverage off its partnership with MoneyTime?

MoneyTime is promoted on the Milford Foundations website, in our social posts, quarterly newsletter and annual Impact magazine. We also sponsor MoneyTime’s nationwide interclass competition which encourages students to complete the program and do their best in the programme’s regular quizzes. But the true leverage will happen in the long run when New Zealanders are better at managing their money and make better financial decisions.

How have you found the MoneyTime team to work with?

The MoneyTime team is excellent to work with, under the strong leadership of Neil Edmond.  In our dealings over the past six years, we’ve always found them to be professional, knowledgeable, and demonstrating a true passion to improve the financial literacy of young people in New Zealand.

What would you say to other organisations considering partnering with MoneyTime?

Don’t hesitate – be part of the monumental change that is underway. The more students who benefit from the MoneyTime programme now, the stronger New Zealand will be. The long-term benefits of having financially literate individuals coming into the workforce can only be of immense value to improving the future of our country. There’s no better time to start the MoneyTime journey than now.

Team Toru class, Peachgrove Intermediate (Hamilton). Winners of the New Zealand interclass competition 2024.

Simon Corbett of Milford Asset Management, Cambridge, presents the winners certificate to Team Toru’s teachers.