The Government has announced its 2001/02 Budget today. It includes some significant new investments in research, science and technology.

The new $100 million Venture Investment Fund is likely to interest everyone in New Zealand's research and innovation community. Designed to work with private sector co-funders, this seed capital initiative has the potential to grow strong New Zealand ideas into international businesses over the next few years.

Attached is a link to an information pack. Here you will also find details of $11.64 million of new money the Government has provided for existing RS&T programmes.

www.morst.govt.nz/budget.html We welcome your interest in these important changes and any questions you may have.