Waka Kotahi launches a new innovation fund

Waka Kotahi has launched a new innovation fund, Hoe ki angitū, and wants to hear from innovators with solutions to some of the problems facing transport in New Zealand.

Hoe ki angitū, a $15 million innovation fund, will support and accelerate innovative projects in the transport sector.

Waka Kotahi National Manager Multimodal and Innovation Deb Hume says the focus of the fund is on encouraging collaboration with the private sector and removing unnecessary barriers, to accelerate solutions.

“We want to engage actively with the private sector and encourage contributions from a broad range of people – community-based organizations, iwi, rural communities, domestic and international companies, start-ups and innovators from all sectors.

“We know that there is some great work and thinking going on in the private sector to address some of the major transport challenges we face – such as reducing emissions, encouraging mode shift, improving accessible and equitable transport options, decarbonising freight, and improving road safety outcomes.

“These challenges need to be urgently addressed to deliver a better-connected, cleaner, and safer transport system that keeps New Zealand moving. Working together we have an opportunity to amplify efforts and really achieve meaningful outcomes. Hoe ki angitū will enable us to support those passionate about solving these problems. For successful applicants, support might be financial – or it might be in other ways including support to navigate the transportation regulatory system, access to data or capabilities or the creation of strategic partnerships. Each project will have a unique set of needs to help it advance.”

Hoe ki angitū is challenge-based, and seeks solutions with the potential to deliver real impact for the land transport system. The fund will launch with three specific challenges with others added in future rounds.

https://www.nzta.govt.nz/media-releases/looking-for-innovative-answers-to-big-transport-challenges/

 

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