The Government's first research vouchers are going to produce company Fresh Direct.The Technology Transfer Voucher scheme was announced in the May budget with $20 million dollars available over four years, starting with $5 million in 2010-2011.It is part
The Government’s first research vouchers are going to produce company Fresh Direct.
The Technology Transfer Voucher scheme was announced in the May budget with $20 million dollars available over four years, starting with $5 million in 2010-2011.
It is part of the Government’s $321 million package to encourage business research and development (R&D).
Auckland-based Fresh Direct, which was established in 1995 and owned by Peter and Jeffery Turner, will use the $190,000 investment to work with Industrial Research to develop a new portable machine that will help process vegetables on the farm.
Fresh Direct distributes a wide range of conventional and organic produce, fresh cut flowers and pot plants throughout New Zealand.
Vouchers, which pay 50% of the cost of the R&D on a project, are intended for businesses with limited or no in-house R&D capability but with well-defined problems or ideas.
The scheme is administered by the Foundation for Research, Science and Technology.
Minister of Research, Science and Technology Wayne Mapp said science and innovation underpins economic growth.
“The vouchers will make it easier for businesses to get access to the research knowledge and expertise they need to realise a good business idea.
“They will enable businesses to work with research organisations to bring together smart business ideas and high-quality research expertise.”
