Updated June 2026

Innovation funding NZ: start with the pathway, not the old programme name

Innovation funding in New Zealand now sits across tax credits, MBIE Innovation Services, NZIAT and research-commercialisation pathways, NZTE, sector bodies, capital and finance.

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Short answer. This page is a route-map guide, not an eligibility assessment. Use it to decide which official source or adviser to check first.

What innovation funding can mean

Innovation funding can mean R&D grants, RDTI, student capability support, deep-tech research platforms, sector support, export growth support, venture capital or bank finance. The right route depends on the activity and business decision.

Current broad routes

  • RDTI and R&D Tax Loss Credit
  • New to R&D and student R&D grants
  • NZIAT and advanced-technology pathways
  • NZTE export support
  • sector programmes such as food, primary, energy and games
  • capital and investor-readiness pathways

Common mistakes

  • chasing old Callaghan programme names
  • assuming every innovation pathway is a grant
  • ignoring evidence and recordkeeping
  • starting grant writing before pathway fit is checked

Best next step

Define the project, budget, uncertainty, market need and business decision before choosing the pathway.

Official sources to check

MBIE science and innovation changesNZIATBusiness.govt.nz innovation funding

Sources and review status

Last reviewed: June 2026.

Official sources checked: IRD, MBIE, business.govt.nz, NZTE, NZGCP, EECA and MPI, as relevant.

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.

This page provides general information only. It does not provide tax, accounting, legal, financial, investment or eligibility advice, and it does not guarantee funding.