13/03/2024
In a new study, the Graeme Dingle Foundation’s youth development programmes have been found to have a staggering $10.50 return for every dollar invested. The study, undertaken by leading NZ economic consultancy firm Infometrics, and the third of its kind commissioned by the foundation since 2009, is a tool which quantifies the social and financial benefits and values of the Foundation’s suite of services, using economic calculations which represent both value and cost to society.
The Graeme Dingle Foundation’s programmes, some with a 30-year history, have long made an impact on youth, enhancing wellbeing, engagement, and commitment to society through increased aspirations, positive trajectories, and pipelines to the workforce, ultimately benefiting our country’s economy long-term.
Traditionally, measuring the economic benefit as a result of our programmes has been difficult, as programme outcomes can span a lifetime for participants. However, understanding our impact through the support of Infometrics means that we can continue to demonstrate to our partners and supporters the true economic benefits and contributions they make to society.
This 2024 update (using 2022 data) follows on from prior analysis by Infometrics in 2019 (using 2017 data) and the original report in 2012 (based on 2009 data). These results are derived from the link between education and earnings, plus a productivity spillover which captures the impact of all the different ways that the presence of a better educated population can improve national wellbeing. Examples include better health outcomes, improved civic participation and greater life satisfaction. The spillover effect of these programmes includes potential reductions in losses to society, for example, smaller proportions impacting the public health system and justice system because they are instead contributing to the wider workforce.
With every $1 invested in Graeme Dingle Foundation programmes, the New Zealand economy gains an impressive return of $10.50. These results are a direct reflection of the Foundation’s strong research and development commitments, which ensure that with the changing landscape of our country, Graeme Dingle Foundation’s programmes adapt to reflect the greatest needs of young people.
Not surprisingly, the Infometrics 2024 report clearly demonstrates the long-lasting positive impact of the programmes, which work in a space of guidance and prevention, ultimately supporting young people to forge positive pathways and pushing toward the Foundation’s goal of making Aotearoa the best place in the world to be young.
We are proud of this Infometrics result and the impact it demonstrates for the nearly 30,000 young people who participate in our programmes each year.
Click here to read the full report
About Infometrics
Infometrics is an economics consultancy based in Wellington with clients all over New Zealand. Their team comprises economists and IT specialists with expertise in quantitative economic analysis, econometric modelling and forecasting, environmental scans, demographic and population projections, spatial economics, and interactive dashboard design.
Learn more at infometrics.co.nz