“These grants allow businesses to bring in highly skilled students to accelerate their R&D [research and development] projects.
“It’s a great injection of talent into the region’s economy over summer, and will boost the number of innovation projects across the Bay of Plenty.”
Cowley said the chamber supported businesses to navigate the application process to ensure the region secured a large share of the national funding pool.
“Supporting these businesses to prepare and submit strong applications has paid off, with nearly $900,000 in funding that directly strengthens our business community.”
Chamber growth and innovation manager Roz Irwin said the milestone was a testament to the strength, creativity, and ambition of the region’s innovation sector.
“This achievement is proof that when industry, students, researchers, and regional partners work together, we create momentum.
“Together, we’re growing capability, accelerating ideas, and ensuring the Bay of Plenty continues to be a place where innovation thrives.”
Global-focused climate tech company Cetogenix was taking on five student interns this summer.
Chief operations officer Alexandra Stuthridge said the grant made it possible for startups such as Cetogenix to host students and give them hands-on experience in “deeptech innovation”.
“The programme helps Cetogenix identify future talent, while students make tangible contributions to real-world projects that accelerate our work.”
University of Waikato deputy vice-chancellor Professor Alister Jones said giving students “real-world R&D experience” benefited their careers and the wider economy.
“Summer internships give students meaningful, relevant hands-on experience while contributing value to the organisations they work with.
“When our students apply their learning in real-world environments, they not only grow their skills and confidence, they help future-proof the Bay of Plenty with the talent and capability it needs.”
– Supplied by Tauranga Business Chamber
