It can be a challenge for any business to establish which, if any, government grant is appropriate for a particular proposed new development. Innovative businesses will sometimes face significant technical challenges as part of their proposed new development and in such cases a Technology New Zealand grant for research and development may be an appropriate option to investigate. Often however, innovative developments, although brilliant concepts and good business opportunities, will not contain the element of technical risk needed to be classified as research and development for the purpose of a TechNZ grant application.

Enterprising Manukau staff will work with you through the planning of your proposed new project and help you establish whether what you plan to do, can be categorised as research and development according to the TechNZ criteria.

In cases where a project is unlikely to qualify for a TechNZ grant, it could be possible to assist you to access other grants such as those offered by New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE).   In some cases businesses might require other types of support that will help them prepare for a future grant application.

Technology New Zealand Grants for Research and Development:

SmartStart – for external technical expertise only – short projects, maximum project period 3 months. SmartStart maximum grant value $5,000 on a matching funding basis – can be approved by Enterprising Manukau within 2-3 days. For applications for grants of more than $5,000 use TechLink through normal TechNZ channels.

A SmartStart application will only be processed if there is a credible prospect of a significant R&D project to be undertaken by the client firm following the provision of such assistance.

TAP – Technical Assessment Project  - This grant is for short projects (up to 6 months duration) to determine the feasibility of a technology prior to committing resources to a full scale R&D project – useful when developing a technology proof of concept. Grant value up to $100,000 on a matching funding basis. For a TAP project, significant technical stretch must be evident. 

TBG – Technology for Business Growth - This grant programme is aimed at businesses that have undertaken R&D before and desires to increase their technical capability through embarking on a complex project with significant technical stretch and where external collaboration will also result in knowledge transfer to the applicant company. Matching investment up to $2 million is available. A very robust application is required.

TechNet – Technology Expertise Network - Advice is available from CRIs, research institutions, Universities and Polytechnics to help you solve technical problems that could inhibit innovation and growth. Assistance available to the value of $5,000 (GST inclusive) – no application forms to be completed.

TIF – Technology Industry Fellowships  - TechNZ can support your company to employ senior undergraduate students ($10+GST per hour for up to 400 hours of work) as well as masters and doctoral students to work on your projects. Various levels of funding are available – see website. Contact the university for identification of students and for TIF funding application.

New Zealand Trade and Enterprise Grants:

EDG – Enterprise Development Grant -  This fund is available to entrepreneurs, start-ups, existing businesses and groups of three or more businesses. With regards to innovation, this grant can assist with technology-based training, feasibility studies, and more. Grants are offered to successful applicants on a 50:50 reimbursement basis and up to a maximum of $20,000 from the EDF each year, from 1 July - 30 June.

GSF – Growth Services Fund -  This fund is intended to assist with new initiatives and new directions aimed at having a significant impact on the business leading to substantial, sustained growth. Co-funding of up to 50% will be offered by NZTE.

If your company would like assistance in applying for governmental grants through Technology New Zealand and Industry New Zealand for innovation or research and development, contact Alta Vos - Phone 09 2622244 or email alta.vos@em.org.nz

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