News and Events New report on improving access to international research funding initiatives New Zealand’s research community has highlighted four areas that are key to improving its access to international funding in a new report released today by REANNZ. Empowering Global Research: Strengthening Collaboration and Capability for New Zealand’s Research Future, outlines the sector’s view on the most significant technology infrastructure barriers and opportunities it faces and how REANNZ could support increased access to international funding initiatives such as Horizon Europe. Findings were drawn from interviews with 28 stakeholders in a wide range of roles. The themes identified were: Enhancing data governance and digital connectivity for researchers Positioning REANNZ as a strategic partner for international collaboration Advancing research opportunities through collaboration, technology and skill development, and Honouring indigenous data sovereignty REANNZ Chief Executive Amber McEwen says the sector’s insights provide valuable guidance for the company and will help inform REANNZ’s future direction. “We are committed to finding new ways to better support Aotearoa’s research sector and are proud to partner with them to unlock new opportunities for innovation and collaboration on the international stage,” she says. “The global research landscape is evolving rapidly, and New Zealand’s association with Horizon Europe delivers an unprecedented opportunity to collaborate and receive funding from one of the world’s largest future-focused innovation funds. “However, there is always more that could be done to maximise these opportunities and keep New Zealand’s research community better connected, more active and increasingly influential internationally. “As part of our role to support the sector, we are leveraging Global Research and Education Networks (GRENs), connecting local researchers to European networks like GÉANT and providing equitable access to world-leading research infrastructure. “By aligning our work with the themes identified in this report, REANNZ can future-proof the nation’s technology infrastructure and further enhance New Zealand’s global research presence. “Thank you to everyone who took part in this work and for generously sharing their time and insights.” New Zealand is an associated country in Pillar 2 of Horizon Europe, the world's largest multilateral research and innovation programme. New Zealand-based researchers and organisations can join or lead Horizon Europe projects and receive funding on equal terms with their European counterparts. Horizon Europe Pillar 2 focuses on science and technologies to address major global challenges, such as climate change, energy and health, and addressing the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. Download and read: Empowering Global Research: Strengthening Collaboration and Capability for New Zealand’s Research Future.
