New transition fund provides continuity while backing bold ideas

The fund was developed on advice from the newly established science funding decision-maker, Research Funding New Zealand. This new fund brings investigator-led research into a single fund with three funding mechanisms:

• Talent Development supports future research leaders to build capability, test ideas and establish independent careers.
• Projects enable bold, innovative research with strong potential to deliver meaningful benefits for New Zealand.
• Programmes support ambitious, collaborative research tackling complex challenges and delivering transformational outcomes over a longer term.

It supports research from early discovery through to larger scale programmes with a focus on delivering impact for New Zealand, in line with national priorities for science, innovation and technology.

The Prime Minister's Science, Innovation and Technology Advisory Council recommended the following four priority areas for public investment:

• Primary industries and the bioeconomy.
• Technology for prosperity.
• Environmental sustainability and resilience.
• Healthy people and a thriving society.

Priorities will be confirmed in the Science, Investment Plan expected to be released mid-2026. 

The fund will open for applications later this year, with up to $84.8 million per annum available for investment across the three funding mechanisms. 

Final funding decisions will be made by Research Funding New Zealand, with all funded projects showing clear alignment with Government priorities for science, innovation and technology.

Transition Research Fund 2027

More information will be available in due course. We recommend subscribing to our MBIE Science Reform newsletter for updates.

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The Transition Research Fund brings contestable funding previously delivered through the Marsden and Endeavour funds into a single investigator-led research fund. All existing contracts continue as agreed.