Nelson Tasman is a place where it’s not only easy to connect, but where connection breeds creativity and innovation. Our economy and talent are nimble and intelligent, built on a strong foundation of research, science, technology, creating added-value enterprise.

Last century’s primary industries have spawned businesses rich in fresh, smart thinking, such as New Zealand King Salmon, Kono, Cawthron Institute, Nelson Pine Industries, and CORE Transport Technology. These, plus hundreds of other businesses have research and development at their core and make continual breakthroughs in their respective sectors.

For example, DC Equipment, a world leader in developing new technologies for steep harvesting, grew out of the region’s strong forestry industry. Nelson Tasman’s historic strength in horticulture means the many high-value food and beverage companies operating today have a wealth of local grower, market, and produce knowledge to draw from. A long history of growing hops means the region has become one of New Zealand’s craft-beer capitals, while still exporting the raw material to the world.

But success in today’s business world doesn’t come easy. Entrepreneurs need to be agile and responsive, staying ahead of global trends and making clever decisions to support business growth. Building a sustainable business strong enough to weather global storms requires a robust culture of innovation. This page is the place to find a range of support services, networks, and resources to turn your R&D dreams into reality.

Regional Business Partner Network Assistance

Regional Business Partner Network Assistance

The Regional Business Partner (RBP) Network is designed to make it easier for New Zealand businesses to access early-stage support to innovate and grow. This national network is made up of 14 'Regional Business Partners’ and is supported by MBIE and Callaghan Innovation - the government’s business innovation agency.

Find Out More

Research and Development Grants

Research and Development Grants

The Nelson Regional Development Agency can help you to access a range of R&D grants to add scale, depth and return to your investment. The R&D grants offered by Callaghan Innovation are structured to meet your business needs, whether you're a young start-up, an established R&D performer, or want to bring students on board to assist in your R&D activities.

Find Out More

Innovation Services

Innovation Services

We can help connect you with the knowledge and skills you need to innovate and succeed. Through a range of programmes and workshops, your business will be able to scale and increase its pace of innovation, from improving performance and eliminating inefficiencies right through to accelerating software and product development.

Find Out More

Technical and Product Development Services

Technical and Product Development Services

The Callaghan Innovation Research and Technical Services Team comprises of 200 of New Zealand’s leading scientists and engineers who help businesses to solve tough technical problems by offering end-to-end support for technology and product development work.

Find Out More

logo