About us

We were established by an Act of Government in 1990 to invest in research, science and technology for the benefit of New Zealand.

Our mission

Investing for results from research, science and technology to deliver greater prosperity, security and opportunities to all New Zealanders.

On behalf of the New Zealand taxpayer, we want to invest in research and development that is likely to bring the greatest benefits to New Zealand.

Selected research could improve our standard of living by improving environmental or social conditions. Or it could boost the economy by delivering a new niche product or service.

Our approach

The Foundation’s primary aim is to excel at our core business - investing and managing government funds in the science sector.

Another key focus is to deepen our understanding of New Zealand's research, science and technology (RS&T) system, and tailor our investment approaches accordingly. We work to achieve these aims by:

• being strategic - we work with key stakeholders to identify desired outcomes and strategies for achieving them
• ensuring delivery - making the best investments in the right organisations with the right people in order to deliver the best results for New Zealand.

An investor, not a funder

Over the last few years we have changed our mindset from being a funder to an investor and this has changed the way we work.

As a funder, we were only able to support the best research proposals submitted to us. As an investor, however, we can help shape the direction of research proposals. This makes it more likely we can invest in research that will produce tangible benefits for New Zealand.

We have also started to more closely monitor research programmes we select for investment to make sure they are delivering the intended results.

Our operating principles

The following operating principles guide us in the development of our business strategy, associated investment processes and investment decisions:

• focusing on results that benefit New Zealand
• working with stakeholders to achieve outcomes that benefit New Zealand
• managing the RS&T investment strategically and sustainably
• using effective research management based on best practices
• increasing global connectivity
• evaluating and reporting progress.