Endeavour Fund projects to receive 2026 extensions

The 2026 Endeavour Fund contestable round was paused to provide stability for the science, innovation and technology sector during the reform period. Redirecting the 2026 allocation to existing contracts will allow a group of strong, high-impact projects to continue their work and maximise the benefits of the investment already made.

Projects receiving extensions include work to:

• develop cold-plasma, hyperspectral-imaging and machine-learning tools to improve sterility and monitoring in cell-based protein production - The New Zealand Institute for Bioeconomy Science
• create an AI-enabled photonic device that provides chemical-free Varroa mite control in beehives - University of Auckland
• advance solid-state hydrogen-storage materials to enable safe and efficient use of green hydrogen - University of Waikato

These projects represent significant scientific capability across emerging technologies, environmental sustainability, and low-emissions energy systems. Extending existing contracts will help ensure research teams can continue progressing their work and delivering value for New Zealand while the science system transitions to its new structure.

A full list of the projects and more information:

Endeavour Fund