Government updates science funding strategy
New Zealand's Minister of Science, Innovation and Technology Judith Collins has announced an updated plan for the Catalyst Fund, prioritizing research areas with potential for global impact. According to Ms Collins, the fund will now focus on delivering clear outcomes and supporting priority research in quantum technology, health, biotechnology, artificial intelligence, space, and Antarctic research.
The new strategy aims to achieve faster and better-quality results by connecting with international partners. To ensure effective investment, proposals must demonstrate high-impact research relevant to New Zealand's needs. The Catalyst Fund will also look for opportunities that facilitate the commercialization of innovative technologies, enable contributions to global science challenges, and support domestic research ecosystems.
The updated plan is part of a broader effort to deliver greater economic impact from publicly funded research. Ms Collins emphasized the importance of seeing clear benefits from government-funded projects, highlighting the need for strategic approach to science funding.
The Catalyst Fund Investment Plan can be found on the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) website.