The New Zealand Product Accelerator continues to fuel success, with several cutting-edge research projects funded through Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE’s) Smart Ideas initiative. Two key projects, where the New Zealand Product Accelerator played a crucial role, have each been awarded~$1M each, showcasing innovation, sustainability, and international collaboration:
1. Extracting value from an invasive seaweed using applied ecophysiology and green solvents
Principal Investigator: Chris Hepburn Hepburn ( University of Otago)
This project transforms environmental challenges into opportunities by utilizing invasive seaweed through eco-friendly processes. The project has strong industry connections and international partnerships, maximizing its potential impact on both a local and global scale.
2. Self-sensing, low-carbon 3D-printed homes from locally sourced waste materials
Principal Investigator: KRISHANU ROY (The University of Waikato)
Focused on housing innovation, this project leverages international expertise and industry partnerships to create affordable, low-carbon, 3D-printed homes from waste materials that can monitor their own structural integrity—pioneering a new era of smart, sustainable construction.
These projects highlight the New Zealand Product Accelerator‘s critical role in connecting universities like University of Otago, The University of Waikato, and The University of Auckland with both local and global industry players, helping secure essential Smart Ideas funding.
Through collaboration with international experts and industry leaders, we’re accelerating world-class research that addresses global challenges and drives economic growth.
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