Updated June 2026

Callaghan Innovation grants replacement: where should NZ businesses look now?

Many businesses still search for Callaghan grants when they are really looking for R&D funding, tax credits, startup support, export support or capital pathways.

What changed. Callaghan Innovation is being disestablished and its functions are being redistributed across the science and innovation system. R&D grants and several startup-related programmes have moved into MBIE Innovation Services, while RDTI remains an Inland Revenue tax credit supported through official RDTI and MBIE channels. Some settings can still change during the transition.

MAP

Where to look now

Start from the current pathway: R&D grant, RDTI, NZTE/export, sector support, capital or adviser-led work.

NOW

Why it is confusing

Old pages, old programme names and old agency references can still appear in search and create noise.

Who it may suit

  • Businesses that previously searched for Callaghan grants
  • Companies checking whether a current R&D or innovation pathway exists
  • Founders comparing RDTI, New to R&D, NZTE, NZGCP, sector support or capital
  • SMEs trying to avoid acting on out-of-date programme names

Who it may not suit

  • Businesses looking for a single replacement programme without checking current settings
  • Companies assuming a grant is the answer when the real need is capital
  • Companies acting on an old search result or archived page
  • Projects with no defined budget, activity or next milestone

Common mistakes

The first common mistake is chasing a programme name rather than the right pathway for the business. The second is assuming a grant is the answer when the real need is capital, or the other way around. The third is acting on an out-of-date page.

What to check before spending time

  • Whether your need is a grant, a tax credit, startup support, export support or capital
  • Which agency now administers the pathway you have in mind
  • Whether the programme is open and what the current criteria are
  • Whether your stage and activity actually fit the pathway
  • Whether an accountant, RDTI adviser or capital adviser should be involved

Official sources to check

Sources and review status

Last reviewed: June 2026.

Official sources checked: MBIE, Callaghan Innovation, business.govt.nz, RDTI.govt.nz, NZGCP and NZTE.

NZ Funding Pathways is a free resource funded by PH Capital Advisory.

General information only. Check the current official source and speak with the relevant adviser before acting.

General information only. Confirm current criteria, rates, caps and process on official pages before you apply, claim or act.

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