KiwiNet is the combined power of 19 universities and research organisations, working together to transform research into realworld impact.
Together, these organisations account for 80% of New Zealand’s publicly funded researchers.
By pooling funding and resources, we accelerate breakthrough discoveries out of the lab and into the marketplace—ready to become the next wave of products, services and startups that change the world.
A globally recognised approach
KiwiNet’s internationally recognised model shows that collaboration isn’t just possible—it’s delivering real results.
Our roots trace back to the formation of UniCom in 2008, with KiwiNet officially founded in 2011 to share PreSeed Acclerator Funding (PSAF), expertise and resources across New Zealand’s research community.
Since then, our network has delivered a ~10x return on PSAF invested, generating 600+ commercial deals, 1,100+ patents, 88 start-ups, 780+ jobs and more than $640m in known revenue.
What we do
Fund groundbreaking discoveries
Backing publicly funded research with PreSeed funding via the KiwiNet Investment Committee.
Grow commercialisation expertise
Empowering tech transfer professionals and building commercialisation capability.
Empower scientists with bold ideas
Supporting entrepreneurial researchers to turn ideas into impact.
Build thriving networks
Connecting people, projects and industries to accelerate innovation.
How we’re funded
KiwiNet is funded by its shareholder organisations, corporate partners and the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE).
KiwiNet is part of MBIE’s Commercialisation Partner Network (CPN), which is here to turn science discoveries into commercially viable products.
Learn more on the MBIE website.
Want the full picture?
Read our FAQs or dive into our annual reports to explore case studies, results and future plans.
Our valued Corporate Partners
