IRANZ Welcomes Strategic Focus On Science, Innovation, And Technology System Reform

The Independent Research Association of New Zealand (IRANZ) welcomes the Council’s report and its focus on strengthening the impact of New Zealand’s science and innovation system.

The proposed move toward mission-led investment and greater emphasis on advanced technologies and applied research is a positive step toward improving productivity and future economic growth. Independent Research Organisations (IROs) will be central to delivering these outcomes, given their close connections to industry and track record in applied research and commercialisation.

As funding is reprioritised, it will be important to manage the transition carefully. IROs hold significant expertise and capability that underpin both current and future innovation. Protecting this capability while enabling growth in new areas will be critical to the success of the reforms.

IRANZ looks forward to working with Government and Research Funding New Zealand to ensure IROs are fully integrated into the new system and can continue to deliver value for New Zealand.

Conflict of Interest Statement

IRANZ acknowledges the importance of transparency and integrity in the development and implementation of the recommendations outlined in the report, Prioritisation in New Zealand’s Science, Innovation and Technology System.

As representatives of independent research organisations, IRANZ members may be directly or indirectly impacted by the proposed funding shifts and prioritisation of research areas. While IRANZ supports the strategic direction outlined in the report, we remain committed to ensuring that the implementation of these recommendations is conducted in a fair, transparent, and consultative manner, with due consideration given to the potential impacts on all stakeholders within the SI&T system.

IRANZ will continue to work collaboratively with the Science, Innovation and Technology Advisory Council, RFNZ, and other stakeholders to ensure that the prioritisation process is inclusive, evidence-based, and aligned with New Zealand’s long-term interests.

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