The programme is a Government initiative managed by the New Zealand Academy of Sport with the goal of assisting elite athletes to achieve education qualifications while pursuing excellence in sport.
University of Otago associate professor of sports medicine Dr David Gerrard said the programme was "a wonderful" helping hand.
"I think we underestimate this and don't celebrate it as much as we should," he said.
"These are talented young performers, who not only carry the province but they also look after their future after sport.
"It is good to see young people with a balance, so I think this is a very significant gesture."
Athletics, cycling, cricket, netball, rugby and rowing were well represented and badminton and synchronised swimming also had athletes awarded scholarships.
Former New Zealand synchronised swimmer Lisa Daniels has retired from the sport after eight years, but has been given a grant to assist her coaching aspirations.
Likewise, former world junior downhill mountain biking champion Scarlett Hagen has retired but is understood to be flirting with a career in motorsport.
Silver Ferns Katrina Grant and Camilla Lees and Black Ferns Beth Mallard and Carla Hohepa are among the recipients, as is promising cyclist James Williamson.
Williamson won the under-23 classification at the 2008 Tour of Southland, placing 11th overall.
He is also the New Zealand elite national under-23 road race champion.
National discus champion and Otago record-holder Marshall Hall is going to put the grant towards retaining his New Zealand title and helping achieve his goal of qualifying for 2010 Commonwealth Games in India.
Dual basketball and cricket international Suzie Bates wants to continue juggling both sports, her degree and has also signed to play in the Australian Women's Basketball League for the Logan Thunder.
Other recipients. - Georgina Allison, Shireen Crumpton, Anna Harvey, Andrea Miller (athletics), Jessica Jonggowisastro (Badminton), Sequoia Cooper (cycling), Kashi Leuchs (mountain biking), Nick Beard, Andrew Dodd, George Spittle, James Fuller (cricket), Claire Kersten, Jessica Moulds (netball), Elliot Riley, Brad Ross, Sophie Spiers (rowing).
