The Government has created a new $15 million fund to explore innovative solutions to New Zealand’s transport challenges.

The Hoe ki angitū innovation fund led by Waka Kotahi, was announced by Transport Minister, the Hon. Michael Wood on June 7. The first round of applications must be submitted before July 4.

“The Government is upgrading New Zealand’s transport system to make it safer, greener, and more efficient for now and future generations to come,” says Minister Wood.

“However, we know we can’t solve some the challenges we face alone, that’s why we are seeking kiwi ingenuity to find solutions that help with global transport challenges.

“New Zealand is a country full of creative, innovative people and to help us successfully meet the problems facing the transport sector we need to tap into that creativity.

“Hoe ki angitū looks to produce exciting possibilities for our transport system and to create solutions that will serve our communities now and in the future. The fund demonstrates a commitment to partnering with the private sector to solve problems together.

“The fund is part of the Government’s comprehensive approach to responding to the climate emergency. Innovation is one of the pillars of our Emissions Reduction Plan to drive forward new and quicker ways to respond to the challenges we are facing in the land transport sector.” 

The fund dedicates $15 million and other non-financial support to help the private sector catalyse the actions needed to solve transport problems and enable and accelerate innovation by breaking down barriers and providing them with the capabilities they need. Successful applicants will receive funding and other support for a total of 16 weeks.

The first three challenges applicants are being asked to address are:

integrating low-emission first and last mile gap solutions with public transport

connecting under-served and rural communities

accelerating the use of recycled and sustainable materials in transport infrastructure

“I am looking forward to see what solutions are supported through the fund, and to seeing them being implemented in the land transport system to make it more sustainable for years to come,” says Minister Wood.

Applications for the first three challenges close on July 4, 2022. Private sector groups such as start-ups, iwi, domestic and international companies, research institutions and university groups are invited to submit applications. 

For more information on the fund, visit www.nzta.govt.nz/innovation