126 hi-tech companies in line for NZ Govt student R&D grants

More than 200 future Kiwi innovators and 126 hi-tech companies will be able to benefit from research and development student grants, announced by Science and Innovation Minister Steven Joyce.

Up to $1.5 million will be made available through Callaghan Innovation to enable 126 businesses to employ up to 233 students to gain work experience in New Zealand’s fast-growing hi-tech sector over the 2015/16 summer break.

“Research and Development Student Experience Grants allow students with science, technology, engineering, design, or business qualifications to advance their skills and understanding of commercial R&D within New Zealand companies,” Joyce says.

“The Government is investing in these grants to help keen, qualified Kiwis obtain work experience in New Zealand’s fast-growing hi-tech sector.

“The companies also gain by employing smart, ambitious young people to help advance their R&D projects.”

According yo Joyce, changes are currently being made to a related Grant Scheme that supports businesses to hire a new graduate on a permanent basis.

“Callaghan is developing a process that better matches businesses with graduates who have completed their study,” he adds.

“An improved, on-demand R&D Career Grant will be available later this year.”

The R&D Student Experience grant provides businesses undertaking R&D in New Zealand with up to $6400 for 400 hours’ work for a qualifying student.

Qualifying businesses must have an ongoing R&D programme, dedicated R&D staff, a head office in New Zealand, and be New Zealand incorporated or have a New Zealand-based director.

Meanwhile, qualifying students must have completed their penultimate or final year of undergraduate or graduate study in science, technology, engineering, design or business at a New Zealand university or tertiary institute.