KiwiNet has launched an online innovation database which will
enable businesses, entrepreneurs and investors globally to
view a diverse range of technologies and expertise in New
Zealand's research organisations.
The Kiwi Innovation Network (KiwiNet) was launched in July
last year, with the aim of increasing the economic impact of
science and technology commercialisation in New Zealand
through collaboration between the universities and crown
research institutes.
Otago Innovation, a wholly owned subsidiary of the University
of Otago, which is based at the university's Centre For
Innovation, was a founding member.
The KiwiNet Innovation Database aimed to facilitate
collaborations between complementary technologies and
increase investor and industry connections by displaying the
commercialisation capability and distinctive portfolio of
innovations that New Zealand had to offer.
"[It] is designed to jump-start the transfer of research
technology to the marketplace by bringing together science
and business.
"We have a wealth of innovations in our universities and
research institutes and by opening up access and working
together we can unlock great value," KiwiNet director Andrew
Turnbull said.
Examples of projects seeking investors or industry
involvement ranged from biopesticides and biologically based
growth promoters, to artificial muscle materials.
Neville Jordan, the executive chairman of private equity and
venture capital company Endeavour Capital, applauded the
initiative.
Endeavour Capital had already made several investments
through KiwiNet members WaikatoLink, University of Canterbury
and Otago Innovation, and Industrial Research Ltd was
spearheading a major export initiative with several other
institutions from KiwiNet.
That collective approach to innovation, a global network and
easy access for funders increased the chance of success for
ventures, Mr Jordan said.
KiwiNet, which receives support from the Ministry of Science
and Innovation, will lever the database through international
portals to provide heightened exposure and visibility for New
Zealand research.
A name, residential address, and (preferably residential) telephone number is required from readers who comment on ODT Online. These details will not be visible to site visitors.