Innovation is about doing things better. It can lead to new products and services, smarter and more efficient ways of doing things and a point of difference that sets a business apart. 

Callaghan Innovation brings a new focus to commercialising innovation in New Zealand, but we’re not doing it on our own.

New Zealand has about 500 science, engineering and technology companies, laboratories, campuses, workshops, studios and factories and 50 major institutions including universities, Crown Research Institutes, polytechnics and private sector companies in the innovation sector.

The innovation system has significant expertise and capability but has traditionally been fragmented. Expertise is spread over several cities; businesses have often been unaware what expertise is available, and where. In this environment, opportunities for collaboration between research organisations, businesses, and individuals are missed and gaps in the skills businesses need can develop.

Callaghan Innovation won’t seek to duplicate or compete with the wider system, but will add value, fill gaps and be an informed and honest broker. We give businesses a single point of access, enable greater collaboration, identify and fill gaps and accelerate opportunities. 

We work closely with NZTE, with 36 offices globally, as a primary government facilitator of international export opportunities and intelligence.  

Businesses also have a critical role in identifying opportunities for themselves and their sectors, and investing in innovation to deliver on those opportunities.

International evidence shows advanced technology institutes like Callaghan Innovation have been successful at helping businesses step up beyond their current capabilities and limitations – and in doing so building innovative capability that contributes to their growth and the broader economy.