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.
