Biotech and AI Collaboration Launched with Singapore

The New Zealand Government has announced 2 new joint research programmes with Singapore to advance innovation in biotechnology for future food and artificial intelligence (AI) for healthy ageing.

Funded through MBIE’s Catalyst Fund, the initiative will invest up to $24 million over 3 years to 7 collaborative projects. These programmes aim to strengthen research ties with Singapore while building capability in key areas aligned with New Zealand’s innovation and sustainability goals.

Biotech in Future Food (in partnership with A*STAR) will support 4 projects focused on algae-based ingredients, hybrid meat, bio-fermented foods and insect-derived bioactives.

Leveraging AI for Healthy Ageing (in partnership with AI Singapore) will support 3 projects applying AI to cognitive health, dementia risk detection and personalised care for older adults.

These initiatives reflect the Government’s commitment to a more innovative, sustainable and health-focused economy.

Find out more about the projects here:

Catalyst: Strategic – New Zealand-Singapore Biotech In Future Foods Research Programme 2025

Catalyst: Strategic – New Zealand-Singapore Leveraging AI for Healthy Ageing 2025