During the 1950s, the Auckland Branch of the New Zealand Federation of University Women developed a fund-raising activity from hiring academic regalia, and by 1990 this amateur enterprise had grown into a profitable small business. Funds from the business were used to finance a programme of awards for women students and, in order to safeguard this programme, members decided to establish a Trust. Thus the NZ Federation of University Women (Auckland Branch) Charitable Trust was established in 1992.

In 2005 as a result of the changes governing  charitable trusts the assets and responsibilities of the NZFGW (Auckland Branch) Charitable Trust were transferred to The Kate Edger Charitable Trust, established on 1 July for the same objectives.

The main objects and purposes of the Trust are to provide funds for the promotion, advancement and encouragement amongst women of education whether it be in the spheres of research and professional activities or artistic or creative activities.