Talented, passionate and determined Bay of Plenty residents are encouraged to apply for an AMP Scholarship.

Liam Walsh presented with his $5000 scholarship in 2011.

Whether it's a community project, a business idea, education or a dream to represent New Zealand at the highest level – AMP is looking for inspirational people from all walks of life to apply.

Applications to the AMP ‘Do Your Thing' Scholarships open July 21 and close September 16, 2014. Almost anyone is eligible, as there are no age limit restrictions.

AMP chief customer officer Jeff Ruscoe says since 1998, AMP has dedicated almost $2 million towards helping more than 150 Kiwis ‘do their thing'.

This year's prize pool of $200,000 is the largest scholarship fund of its kind in New Zealand.

'Our aim is to inspire people to take control of their future and own their tomorrow – encouraging them to take steps towards their dreams or goals.”

'Whatever your thing is, or where you're at with it, AMP and our ‘Do Your Thing' Scholarships not only provide you the financial resource you need to get things under way, but our dedicated teams offer inspiration, support tools and information to help you go on to achieve them.”

For more information, including application tips, previous scholarship recipients and to apply online, visit www.doyourthing.co.nz