Red meat sector Dragon’s Den: Entries open for 2026 innovation contest

Last year's Red Meat Sector Dragon’s Den winner, Bioeconomy Science Institute senior scientist Renyu Zhang, is now working to bring his idea to life.

The Meat Industry Association is again looking for game-changing ideas for New Zealand’s red meat processing and exporting sector.

Applications for the 2026 Red Meat Sector Dragon’s Den are invited, for Kiwis to step up with fresh, innovative concepts to add value to the sector.

Meat Industry Association chief executive Sirma Karapeeva said the first-ever Dragon’s Den last year was a huge success, attracting 42 applications with interesting and novel ideas.

“This is a unique opportunity to make a real difference to the sector, and we encourage anyone with a great idea to enter,” she said.

The inaugural winner, Renyu Zhang, impressed the judges with his proposal to enhance the flavour profile of mechanically deboned meat (MDM) through a umamification process.

Zhang, a senior scientist with Bioeconomy Science Institute, is now working to bring his idea to life.

Zhang is speaking with potential funders about the next step on the journey, as his business case is almost complete.

“Renyu’s concept builds on the proud tradition of innovation in New Zealand’s red meat industry, and we’re excited to see where it goes next,” Karapeeva said.

“Rapid advances in technology and science create a perfect opportunity for Kiwis to put their number 8 wire mentality to work and find new ways to move the dial”

Karapeeva said the global red meat market was highly competitive, and as a small-volume exporter, New Zealand must keep innovating and adding value to stay ahead.

“We know there are plenty of great ideas out there, but not everyone has the resources to develop a business case or secure investment.

“That’s where Dragon’s Den comes in.”

The Dragon’s Den gives individuals and businesses the chance to pitch their ideas directly to industry leaders.

Concepts can span any discipline related to meat, co-products, or processing, and entries are welcome from anyone, whether they’re part of an organisation or an independent innovator.

The most promising ideas will be invited to present a five-minute pitch to a panel of experts at the Bioeconomy Science Institute-MIA Meat Innovation Workshop in Palmerston North on March 11-12, 2026.

Entries close on February 11, 2026.

For more information on the competition, those interested can download a flyer here.

- Supplied by Meat Industry Association