The new TechNZ

The TechNZ launch in Auckland on Tuesday provided a good insight into the Foundation of Research Science & Technology's thinking. It also confirmed the Bay of Plenty's 'sub-region' status.

There are only going to be two types of investment in the future. Firstly, Technology Investments and secondly, Skills & Capability Investments. So it is goodbye to the mind-boggling range of different investment and grant products available before.

The second major change is the management of the application process. For Pingar, as an existing TechNZ client, we will continue to be managed by Shane, our FRST relationship manager. For any new Bay of Plenty company wishing to apply for a TechNZ investment, they will need to approach our Regional Technology Partner, Innovation Waikato. This appointment will be up and running by September 1st. I understand that an Innovation Waikato rep will be in the Bay for one day a week to act as the local liaison.

The basic thrust of the Forum was very positive. It will be interesting though to see how the Foundation and TechNZ get their message out into the field. For planners in the Bay of Plenty looking at creating a local Innovation Park, it also makes interesting reading.