The Taranaki Applied Innovation Centre is designed to connect, enable, develop, and accelerate the science and technology sector in Taranaki through the establishment of a dedicated science hub.

As part of the newly launched Tapuae Roa 2025/26 Action Plan, this strategic project led by Venture Taranaki positions Taranaki as a highly desirable region for researchers, entrepreneurs, and startups.

Vision and goals

The Taranaki Applied Innovation Centre will enable a regional approach to scientific and technological innovation to establish Taranaki as a beacon for innovative research and development on the national and global stage. Key goals include:

  • Building local expertise in emerging industries, such as biotechnology.
  • Connecting organisations with national and international funding opportunities.
  • Attracting world-class researchers and startups to Taranaki.
  • Strengthening community engagement in science.
  • Develop and deliver courses to build STEM skills in Taranaki communities.

Boosting regional capability and inspiring our rangitahi

The Applied Innovation Centre will connect, support, and elevate research potential through the hosting of scientific researchers and the provision of outreach for community and rangatahi.

In the first year of this project, the centre will carry out the following activities:

  • Connect science researchers with Taranaki organisations to bring more research funding into the region.
  • Build a regional strategy for scientific research that ensures Taranaki residents benefit from any activity taking place across the region.
  • Deliver school and community outreach to increase public engagement with science.
  • Develop and deliver courses to build STEM skills in Taranaki communities.

Attracting new, advanced industries to Taranaki

Through a project led by Iain Hosie, biotechnology director and entrepreneur, the Centre will assess the potential for a biotechnology industry in Taranaki, as well as investigate the most relevant technologies and the best pathway to attracting startups to the region.

This project will develop a comprehensive roadmap to position Taranaki as a national biotechnology hub, engaging with the national and international biotechnology sector to promote the region’s natural advantages.

Long term aspirations

The Taranaki Applied Innovation Centre project hopes to become a significant contributor to the local economy and education sector, providing mutual public benefit for the workforce, innovators, and the next generation.

Key outcomes include:

  • Establishing a dedicated physical hub for science and innovation.
  • Hosting postgraduate students performing unique research.
  • Attracting at least 10 biotechnology companies by 2035.
  • Becoming a national biotechnology hub within a special economic zone, something that is being explored as part of the Tapuae Roa 2025/26 Action Plan.
  • Elevating the region’s reputation for excellence in science, technology, and sustainable development.

Collaborating with Our Community and Iwi

The Taranaki Applied Innovation Centre is committed to fostering genuine collaboration with iwi and local organisations to ensure that the Centre reflects the values, aspirations, and needs of the Taranaki community.

By placing community engagement and a Te Ao Māori perspective at the core of its operations, the Centre will create a meaningful partnership that benefits all stakeholders while advancing science and technology in Taranaki. This collaboration will set a precedent for inclusive, community-driven innovation on both a national and global stage.

Connect with the team

The Taranaki Applied Innovation Centre aims to bring together Taranaki communities, iwi, industry, and educators to launch a bold vision for science and technology in our region. 

Whether you're a researcher, innovator, company wanting to diversify, or an investor looking for an exciting new opportunity to be part of an advanced future for Taranaki, we encourage you to contact us.

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