Innovating New Zealand connects polytechs

Innovating New Zealand connects businesses with Polytechnics through a collaborative new website

New Zealand’s six Metro Polytechnics are today launching a collaborative website to provide a range of services to industry—part of a wider initiative to increase collaboration between the tertiary education sector and business.

Innovating New Zealand—comprising the six Metropolitan Polytechnics— will connect companies with a range of services, expert advice and staff training through a new website www.innovatingnz.org.nz. The website is part of a greater online resource for manufacturing companies available at www.manufacturingnz.org.nz

Business New Zealand, Innovating New Zealand and Knowledge HERE, a Massey University initiative, have joined forces to provide companies with easy access to the knowledge, R&D, and staff training opportunities available from the polytechnics and universities.

The polytechnic sector has some cutting-edge product development facilities, including the Centre for Smart Product at Wellington Institute of Technology and the Applied Design Research Centre at Otago Polytechnic.

Business NZ Chief Executive Phil O’Reilly says the connection between polytechnics, universities and the business sector will improve the rate of commercially-successful innovations.

“This new technology will make the commercialisation of innovation easier and faster by marrying up science with business know-how to increase productivity and create high-value products for the global market.”

Innovation also encompasses improvements to business operations and organisational capabilities. Otago Polytechnic CEO Phil Ker says it is these areas of innovation where the Polytechnics can really add value.

“The polytechnics are a valuable source of knowledge and expertise for business, particularly in areas like strategic development, human resources, workplace communication and management training.”

The Innovating New Zealand website provides businesses with a full range of innovation services, reinforcing the fact the innovation is both applicable and beneficial for all organisations regardless of size or industry sector.

ENDS