Structure of Advanced Technology Institute announced

The New Zealand Government's new Advanced Technology Institute has been established to support firms of all sizes to innovate in response to market needs and opportunities. It will do this by providing a range of value-adding services, including product testing and analysis, R&D, and commercialisation1 advice.

It will also broker access to specialised equipment, facilities and knowledge networks by working collaboratively with existing players in the innovation system. These include Crown Research Institutes, universities, polytechs, and independent research organisations, as well as industry bodies and economic development agencies.

More detail, including the Cabinet paper and supporting documents, can be found here.

Also do you know about the newly formed Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE)? MBIE came into existence on 1 July 2012. It integrates the functions of the former Ministry of Science and Innovation, Department of Building and Housing, Ministry of Economic Development, and the Department of Labour. Check out the MBIE website for more information on their services including R&D funding support for innovative New Zealand businesses.

Footnote

1Refers to the process of introducing a new product or service to the marketplace (whether in New Zealand or overseas). For the purposes of a patent application commercial working can include taking orders for a product or service (even if in confidence). It is important to understand that commercial working of an invention before a patent application is filed may invalidate that patent application (see validity below).

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.

James & Wells Intellectual Property, three time winner of the New Zealand Intellectual Property Laws Award and first IP firm in the world to achieve CEMARS® certification.